HEAT EMERGENCY PLAN 

When the forecast of the temperature or heat index in the District is 95 degrees or higher, the District Government implements the Heat Emergency Plan and activates cooling centers for community members to seek relief from the heat. Residents and visitors should take extra steps to beat the heat by staying in the shade or air-conditioning, drinking plenty of water, and visiting a cooling center. Periods of high heat and humidity can cause medical problems such as heat exhaustion and stroke. 

Interactive Map 

Click here for a map of cooling center locations.

Residents can type in an address to identify cooling center locations closest to them, site addresses, and hours of location. 
NOTE: District spray parks will be open on Saturday, June 15, and then remain open for weekday operations. Spray parks are open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. View a full list of spray parks and locations at dpr.dc.gov/sprayparks. DPR outdoor pools are on a Saturday and Sunday only schedule. Starting on Monday, June 24, all DPR outdoor pools will be open six days a week and spray parks will be open daily, operating on individual schedules. Hours of operation can be found at https://dpr.dc.gov/page/outdoor-pools. 

Transportation to Shelters 

If you or someone you know needs free, accessible transportation to a cooling center, please call the shelter hotline at (202) 399-7093 or dial 311.  

Safety Precautions 

Extreme heat is dangerous and can cause illnesses and death. As temperatures rise, you are encouraged to take an active role in your safety and take action to stay cool.  

• Stay indoors: Find places in the shade or with air conditioning to seek relief from the heat. 
• Check on your neighbors: Young children, older adults, and those with disabilities or other access and functional needs are the most vulnerable in our community.  
• Drink plenty of water and avoid liquids that contain alcohol, caffeine, or large amounts of sugar. 
• Wear lightweight, loose fitting, light-colored clothing and use SPF 15 or higher sunscreen. 
• Do not leave children, pets, or service animals in vehicles as they can reach dangerous temperatures within 10 minutes.  

Pet Safety 

Pet and service animal owners should keep animals indoors, walk them early in the morning, and give them plenty of water. 

For all animal emergencies, including animals left outside in extreme temperatures or in vehicles, call the Humane Rescue Alliance at (202) 723-5730. 

Know the Signs of Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion 

It is important for residents to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and stroke. A person can go from feeling apparently well to a seriously ill condition within minutes. Symptoms may include: 

• Dry red skin 
• Convulsions 
• Throbbing headaches 
• Disorientation 
• Chills 
• Delirium 
• Coma 

If you suspect that you or someone you know is experiencing a heat-related illness, call 911.  

Fire Hydrants 

DC Water and DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services (FEMS) officials remind the public that unauthorized use of fire hydrants is unlawful, dangerous and damaging.