Montco Declares 'Code Red' Through Saturday

Montgomery County Department of Public Safety is issuing a "Code Red" Hot Weather Health Warning for the county beginning Monday, July 15 through Saturday, July 20 between 12 noon and 8 p.m. on each of those days.

The heat index is expected to be at or above over 100 degrees during those peak hours.

Montgomery County suggests these tips to alleviate the effect of the hot weather:

• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids.
• Wear lightweight, light colored, loose fitting clothing
•  If at all possible, try to get outdoor work completed during the morning to avoid the warmest part of the day.
• Keep cool by seeking an air conditioned building if available, if not, seek rest in the shade.

The high heat conditions have been associated with excess mortality, and residents should take precautions to prevent heat-related stress and exhaustion.

Most of the Senior Adult Activity Centers (SAACs) are air-conditioned, as are malls and libraries. The Montgomery County Human Services Center at Fornance and DeKalb Streets in Norristown will also be a cooling site during a Code Red Heat Emergency for residents who cannot access other sites.

During the day, homeless residents can escape the heat at the Coordinated Homeless Outreach Center (CHOC) on the Norristown State Hospital grounds (610-292-9244), at the Norristown Ministry’s Hospitality Center (610-277-1321) during their hours of operation, at the Norristown office of the Salvation Army (610-275-4183), or at the Pottstown office of the Salvation Army (610-326-1621).