The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #48862

Lawrence Robinson, MD, MPH and Jerome H. Libby, MA. Division of Health Promotion, Philadelphia Department of Public Health, 1101 Market Street, 10th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215-685-5350, Larry.Robinson@Phila.gov

In the United States, heat waves are responsible for more weather-related deaths than any other weather condition or natural disaster.

The Philadelphia Health Department’s efforts to prevent heat-related death have evolved over time. These include both ongoing prevention/education activities and intervention/mitigation efforts during dangerous periods. The program is notable for involvement of both governmental and non-governmental organizations, recognition of the importance of community involvement and response (block captains, the Buddy System), and pioneering technology (watch/warning system).

This panel presentation includes those responsible for program components (Health Department; other City departments; other Philadelphia agencies; watch/warning system).

The importance of medical examiners’ using the most appropriate definition of heat-related death will be emphasized, as will be the overriding importance of increasing public awareness (in both prevention and intervention activities).

Prevention/education activities will be discussed, including direct mailings to community leaders and gatekeepers of hot weather information and advice emphasizing the “Buddy System” (checking on high-risk individuals, especially the elderly).

A Heat Warning triggers multiple intervention activities. Media announcements and contacts include advice on coping with the heat and promoting the Buddy System. “Heatline” operation includes information to callers on coping with the heat, nurses to discuss callers’ medical problems, emergency service (911) referrals, and referrals to mobile teams for home visits. Other intervention activities include extending senior centers’ schedules; changing homeless outreach procedures; adjusting EMS staffing; inspecting group living facilities; suspending utility terminations; air-conditioned shelter capability.

Discussion will include a new city ordinance, as well as a recently instituted “Cool Homes” program.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this session, the participants will be able to (1)discuss the elements of a comprehensive heat emergency program; (2)describe the roles and importance of prevention measures prior to a heat wave compared to intervention/mitigation components during a heat wave; (
• recognize the most recent developments in watch/warning systems.

Keywords: Disasters, Climate

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: No commercial organizations or institutions will be included in the discussion. No commercial products or services will be discussed.
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.