Attachment A - 2024 Heat Response Plan Draft.pdf

City of Phoenix — City Council Policy Session (2024-02-27)

View PDF Meeting page

Extracted text (via pymupdf) 67948 characters

Attachment A
City of Phoenix
2024 Heat Response Plan

DRAFT for City Council Review
February 27, 2024

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 2

Table of Contents

Executive Summary

3
Purpose and Planning Process

4
Weather and Climate Assessment

6
Health Assessment

8
Heat Response Programs and Services

Table of Strategies and Actions

Strategy 1: Equip First Responders for Effective Heat Response

Strategy 2: Leverage Data for Informed Action

Strategy 3: Provide Publicly Accessible Cool Space

Strategy 4: Increase Access to Drinking Water

Strategy 5: Support Cool and Safe Home Environments

Strategy 6: Support Cool and Safe Mobility and Recreation

Strategy 7: Implement Heat Safety Measures for Workers

Strategy 8: Engage with the Community to Build Heat Readiness

Strategy 9: Collaboratively Work Across Department and Agency Boundaries
28
Acknowledgements

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 3

Executive Summary

The Heat Response Plan details the programs and services that Phoenix delivers to residents
and visitors to prevent illness, death, and other serious and immediate adverse health outcomes
associated with indoor and outdoor heat exposure. Heat-related deaths in the City of Phoenix as
reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health have risen substantially since
2014, to a new record high of 395 during 2023, the hottest summer in the City’s history. The
2024 Heat Response Plan acknowledges these rising impacts by proposing several substantive
changes to the City’s overall approach to heat response, as well as revisions to several
programs.

The Heat Response Plan contains 39 specific heat response actions for which the City holds a
leadership role, organized into nine broad strategies:

1. Equip first responders for effective heat response.
2. Leverage data for informed action.
3. Provide publicly accessible cool space.
4. Increase access to drinking water.
5. Support cool and safe home environments.
6. Support cool and safe mobility and recreation.
7. Implement heat safety measures for workers.
8. Engage with the community to build heat readiness.
9. Collaboratively work across department and agency boundaries.

There are 12 new or significantly revised actions in the 2024 Heat Response Plan:

1. Adopt an Incident Management Team (IMT) framework for the heat season.
2. Formalize a tiered heat response framework.
3. Expand operating hours and services at Heat Relief Network locations.
4. Integrate heat outreach programs into other city services.
5. Follow improved heat safety plans for all city departments.
6. Propose new heat safety requirements for City-engaged businesses.
7. Leverage the Phoenix Fire Department’s data resources in new ways.
8. Develop more specific strategies for people who use substances.
9. Coordinate with recently added County and State staff positions.
10. Increase the modalities and reach of public messaging.
11. Expand the trail closure policy on heat warning days.
12. Operate the Safe Outdoor Space.

The City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan was presented for discussion by City Council at
the February 27, 2024 City Council Policy meeting.

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 4

Purpose and Planning Process

The City of Phoenix Heat Response Plan outlines programs and services intended to protect
public health and quality of life from the threats of hot weather. Extreme heat is a leading cause
of weather-related deaths in the United States and exerts a significant public health burden in
Phoenix. The most acute impacts include heat-caused and heat-related fatalities, as well as
heat-related illnesses that require emergency medical service and hospital case. Many other
health challenges are also known to be related to prolonged, frequent, or severe heat exposure
that are not systematically documented. These challenges include cases of heat illness that are
unreported, disrupted sleep patterns, and anxiety over high electricity bills.

While everyone is potentially vulnerable to heat-related illness, certain communities account for
a disproportionately high share of the public health burden of extreme heat. Multiple studies of
heat-health impacts in Arizona find that rates of heat-related illness and/or death are higher in
communities that have lower incomes, lower quality housing, a higher prevalence of elderly
individuals, a higher prevalence of people of color, and other indicators of social vulnerability.
Public health reports in Arizona further point to people experiencing homelessness and
substance users as disproportionately burdened by heat.

Managing the public health risks associated with extreme heat is an integral component of
hazard preparedness for the City of Phoenix owing to its geographic positioning in the Sonoran
Desert. Prolonged, hot summers are a part of the regional climate. However, the experience of
summer heat is highly variable between different neighborhoods in Phoenix and between
individual residents. Historical development patterns and varying topography across Phoenix
lead to neighborhood-to-neighborhood air temperature differences of 10°F or more on summer
days. Exposure to individual people is even more variable depending on their daily activity
patterns and access to air-conditioned spaces. Over time, the severity of summer heat in
Phoenix is being amplified beyond background conditions by urban development and global-
scale climate change. Summer daytime and nighttime temperatures have increased in the City
of Phoenix for several decades and temperatures are projected to continue to rise.

To address the significant, inequitable, and growing public health risks associated with extreme
heat, the Phoenix City Council unanimously passed the City’s first Heat Response Plan in 2022.
This document reflects the second annual update to the Heat Response Plan.

The process to update the Heat Response Plan for the 2024 Heat Season began in late
summer 2023, with the formalization of an Executive Heat Response Leadership team. This
team is comprised of senior staff from Emergency Management, Fire, Public Health, Homeless
Solutions, and Heat Response and Mitigation. The Executive Heat Response Leadership team
initiated several different types of program evaluation to identify opportunities for improvement
toward the goal of preventing heat-associated illness and deaths. Those evaluation activities
included a formal after-action analysis of the City’s enhanced efforts during summer 2023, a
facilitated enterprise risk management workshop with departmental leadership, and review of
program performance with each of the individual departments that operate programs and

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 5

services relevant to the heat response mission. The Heat Response Plan is also informed by
other stakeholder engagements, including the City’s participation in a two-day planning
workshop with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in February 2024, an April
2024 Heat, Health, and Homelessness Roundtable, a June 2024 convening of the C40 Cool
Cities Network, and the 2023 Arizona Heat Planning Summit.

The 2024 Heat Response Plan presents 39 actions organized into nine broad strategies:
1. Equip first responders for effective heat response.
2. Leverage data for informed action.
3. Provide publicly accessible cool space.
4. Increase access to drinking water.
5. Support cool and safe home environments.
6. Support cool and safe mobility and recreation.
7. Implement heat safety measures for workers.
8. Engage with the community to build heat readiness.
9. Collaboratively work across department and agency boundaries.

The goal of the Heat Response Plan is to enhance public health and community resilience by
alleviating adverse effects of heat. Key performance indicators include:
•
Heat-related mortality: Strive for year-over-year reductions in the number of fatalities
attributed to heat exposure in the City of Phoenix
•
Heat-related illnesses: Strive for year-over-year reductions in the number and severity of
medical service calls related to heat exposure in the City of Phoenix.

The scope of the Heat Response Plan has been modified from previous iterations to emphasize
program and services that either wholly or partially operate on seasonal time scales with a focus
on heat, public health, and quality of life. The City of Phoenix also implements and invests in a
wide range of other programs and services that support the goals of the Heat Response Plan
but are not specifically activated or emphasized for the heat season, and as such are not listed
as actions in this document. Examples of those related initiatives include:
•
Major investments in affordable housing units and shelter beds, with 1,864 new beds to
be created in the 2022–2025 time frame along with 125 affordable housing units.
•
Operation of housing repair and weatherization programs.
•
Launch of a pilot program to deploy water stations in high density, multimodal areas to
enhance access to equitable, free and reliable chilled drinking water.
•
Installation of shade structures at transit stops and in the public right of way, including
through the Phoenix Sidewalk Shade Project that will include work from local artists.
•
Installation of shade structures at schools and youth-focused centers through the Shade
for Students grant program.
•
Curation of ideas for innovative shade structure designs through an Innovate PHX
Challenge that attracted over 170 participants.
•
Increases in urban tree canopy through the Community Canopy and Canopy for Kids
grant programs, focused on low tree equity score neighborhoods.
•
Authorship of a new ShadePHX Plan to replace the 2010 Tree and Shade Master Plan.

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 6

Weather and Climate Assessment

The City of Phoenix Heat Response Plan defines May through September as “Heat Season”
and June through August as “Summer.”
Heat Season 2023 Review

The 2023 Heat Season in the City of Phoenix set many records with respect to the severity and
duration of extreme heat conditions. After a near-normal May and temperatures below normal
for much of June, each month from July through September was ranked among the top six all
time, respectively, in Phoenix’s history. Conditions were most severe in July, which became the
hottest month on record for any major city in the United States. In July, temperatures reached
110°F or above 30 times and 115°F or above 17 times. The highest recorded temperature
during the summer was 119°F, reached three times—all in July. The table below provides a
month-by-month comparison of high and low temperatures for the 2023 Heat Season against
climatological normals.
Month
2023
Avg. High
Normal
Avg. High*
2023
Rank**
2023
Avg. Low
Normal
Avg. Low*
2023
Rank**
May
96.0°F
94.5°F
27
70.6°F
69.5°F
16
June
103.3°F
104.2°F
52
75.6°F
78.6°F
39
July
114.7°F
106.5°F
1
90.8°F
84.5°F
1
August
109.5°F
105.1°F
2
88.0°F
83.6°F
1
September
103.4°F
100.4°F
6
78.9°F
78.1°F
11
*per the official 1991–2020 U.S. Climate Normals adopted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
**out of 128 recorded years; 1 indicates hottest on record
Other records of note for the 2023 Heat Season include:
•
Excessive Heat Warnings were in effect for Phoenix on 42 days, which was the second
most on record.
•
Daily high temperature records were set or tied on 20 separate days, including on 12
days between July 13 and July 29.
•
The daily high temperature of 119°F recorded on three separate days represent the
fourth warmest days on record for the City of Phoenix. Temperatures have only reached
120°F and above on three days (all in the 1990s).
•
New records for the highest and second highest daily low temperature were set in 2023.
The new record high low temperature of 97°F was set on July 19.
•
The stretch of 31 consecutive days with daily high temperatures was the longest such
streak on record, breaking the prior streak of 18 days set in 1974.

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 7

Climate Data for Planning

The table below presents weekly averages, ranges, and probabilities of exceedance for Phoenix
Sky Harbor based on 2014–2023 observations. Statistics are based on the previous ten years
rather than the official 30-year normals established by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration to ensure that the most recent observations are used and to acknowledge non-
stationarity in regional temperature trends. Data are presented for each week of the 2024 Heat
Season starting on Sundays.

Week
Date
Daily High Temperatures
Daily Low Temperatures

Average
(°F)
Highest
(°F)
100°F or
above*
110°F or
above*
Average
(°F)
Highest
(°F)
90°F or
above*
1
4/28
92.5
104
16%
0%
66.5
75
0%
2
5/5
92.0
108
26%
0%
67.4
81
0%
3
5/12
94.7
105
33%
0%
69.6
82
0%
4
5/19
93.7
108
24%
0%
69.1
79
0%
5
5/26
99.6
112
54%
3%
73.8
84
0%
6
6/2
104.2
115
81%
13%
77.5
87
0%
7
6/9
104.6
115
83%
16%
79.1
90
4%
8
6/16
108.0
119
96%
37%
81.3
92
11%
9
6/23
107.9
116
99%
36%
83.2
93
9%
10
6/30
107.5
116
96%
33%
84.2
94
3%
11
7/7
109.4
118
99%
56%
86.9
95
33%
12
7/14
107.5
119
96%
29%
86.7
97
29%
13
7/21
107.1
119
89%
39%
86.0
96
30%
14
7/28
106.7
118
91%
36%
85.2
95
24%
15
8/4
106.7
116
91%
31%
84.8
92
16%
16
8/11
106.0
117
84%
29%
83.7
93
16%
17
8/18
103.5
115
77%
11%
82.0
91
6%
18
8/25
106.9
117
94%
27%
84.5
93
13%
19
9/1
104.5
115
86%
10%
83.0
90
1%
20
9/8
102.3
114
69%
7%
80.4
90
1%
21
9/15
100.3
109
53%
0%
77.6
87
0%
22
9/22
97.4
106
53%
0%
74.8
85
0%
23
9/29
95.0
107
21%
0%
71.2
79
0%
*Probabilities of exceedance indicate the percent of days within the given week that temperatures have reached the
indicated temperature over the past decade.

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 8

Health Assessment

Heat-related deaths are tracked in Maricopa County by the Maricopa Department of Public
Health (MCDPH), in partnership with the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner.
Heat-related deaths include those that are directly attributable to heat exposure (heat-caused
deaths) and those where heat played a contributing role but was not the primary cause of death
(heat-contributed deaths). The Maricopa County heat-health system is widely recognized as
national and international best practice. Heat-related deaths have been recorded using
consistent methods since 2006.

Heat-related deaths have increased year-over-year in Maricopa County each year since 2014
and have set new record highs each year since 2016; this pattern holds true when adjusting for
population growth. Particularly large year-over-year increases were evident from 2015 to 2016
(+83%), 2019 to 2020 (+62%), and 2021 to 2022 (+25%). Another large increase is evident from
2022 to 2023, with an increase of more than 47% to a new record high of 625 cases in Maricopa
County last summer. Of those, 395 cases occurred in the City of Phoenix and/or were among
residents of the City of Phoenix. Approximately 63% of heat-related deaths in Maricopa County
over the past two summers have been in the City of Phoenix or among Phoenix residents.

MCDPH produces comprehensive annual reports that detail key risk factors and characteristics
of heat-associated deaths, including demographic information, details about housing status, air
conditioning availability, and indications of drug/alcohol use.

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 9

Key details for City of Phoenix cases (total = 395) in 2023:
•
224 cases were considered heat caused and 171 cases were considered as heat
contributed.
•
340 cases had a place of injury in Phoenix. Among these cases, 257 were among
Maricopa County residents, 23 were among residents of other counties in Arizona, and
80 had out of state or unknown residency.
•
268 cases had a known place of injury outdoors; 73 cases had a known place of injury
indoors.
•
Among 268 outdoor cases, 200 occurred in an urban area, and 225 were men
•
Among 73 indoor cases, 60 occurred with either a non-functioning air conditioning unit
(50), an air conditioning unit that was turned off (8), or in a unit without electricity (2).
Women accounted for 1/3 of the indoor cases, versus less than 1/6 of the outdoor cases.
•
213 of the 395 total cases were individuals known to be experiencing homelessness and
another 59 were among people with an unknown living situation.
•
290 of the 395 cases involved drugs or alcohol in the cause of death.
Methamphetamine/amphetamines were present in 240 of those cases and
fentanyl/fluorofentanyl were present in 143. Of the 290 substance use cases, 190 were
among people experiencing homelessness.
•
252 cases occurred in July.
•
ZIP codes with especially high rates of place of injury or place of residence for heat-
related deaths in Phoenix in 2023 included 85006, 85007, 85009, 85017, and 85034.

A key lesson learned from MCDPH and Arizona State University (ASU) analysis of heat-
associated death and illness data is that serious health impacts from heat are not confined to
only the hottest summer days. While the hottest days do bring the highest risk of heat-
associated death and illness, cases begin to be seen at temperatures that would be considered
mild by most Phoenicians. These findings imply that a seasonal approach to heat management,
rather than one only focused on intermittent “heat waves” is necessary in our hot desert city.
While the days with the highest temperatures and National Weather Service Excessive Heat
Warnings in effect are indeed the most dangerous, there are many more days without warnings
and with lower temperatures that also require vigilance and sufficiently protective programs and
services. In 2023 in the City of Phoenix:
•
210 heat-related deaths (53.2%) occurred on the 22 Heat Season days with
temperatures reaching 115°F or above.
•
115 heat-related deaths (29.1%) occurred on the 33 Heat Season days with
temperatures reaching 110°F to 114°F.
•
67 heat-related deaths (17.7%) occurred on the 98 Heat Season days with temperatures
not reaching 110°F.

City staff from multiple departments are continuing to analyze heat-related medical dispatch
data collected by the Fire Department. This analysis has informed actions in the 2024 Heat
Response Plan and will be posted when finalized.

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 10

Heat Response Programs and Services

In 2024, the City of Phoenix will take the lead or play a significant role in executing 39 heat
response programs and services. This comprehensive portfolio comprises a mix of ongoing
programs continuing from previous years, revised existing programs, and new initiatives
introduced for the summer of 2024. The responsibility and support for these programs and
services, encompassing budget and staffing needs, are distributed across more than 15
different City departments and functions.
There are 12 new or significantly revised actions in the 2024 Heat Response Plan:

1. Adopt an Incident Management Team (IMT) framework for the heat season (see Action 9.1).
2. Formalize a tiered heat response framework (2.1).
3. Expand operating hours and services at Heat Relief Network locations (3.2, 3.3).
4. Integrate heat outreach programs into other city services (8.6).
5. Follow improved heat safety plans for all city departments (7.1).
6. Propose new heat safety requirements for City-engaged businesses (7.3).
7. Leverage the Phoenix Fire Department’s data resources in new ways (2.2).
8. Develop more specific strategies for people who use substances (8.4)
9. Coordinate with recently added County and State staff positions (9.5).
10. Increase the modalities and reach of public messaging (8.1).
11. Expand the trail closure policy on heat warning days (6.4).
12. Operate the Safe Outdoor Space (3.4).

The subsequent pages feature an inventory of all programs and services organized by strategy,
presented in table format. Following the table, a short narrative is provided for each action to
provide a more complete perspective of the components of the Heat Response Plan.

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 11

Strategies
Actions
2024 Status
City Departments
Equip First
Responders for
Effective Heat
Response
1.1 Activate Summer Heat Response Protocols
CONTINUED
FIRE
Leverage Data for
Informed Action
2.1 Adopt a Tiered Heat Response Framework
NEW
OEM, FIRE, OHRM,
OPH
2.2 Monitor City of Phoenix Dispatch and First
Responder Calls
CONTINUED
OEM, FIRE, OHRM,
OPH
2.3 Monitor Regional Data with the Arizona
Heat Resilience Work Group
CONTINUED
OEM, FIRE, OHRM,
OPH
Provide Publicly
Accessible Cool
Space
3.1 Designate City Facilities as Cooling Centers
in the Heat Relief Network
REVISED
LIBRARY, OHRM
3.2 Offer Extended Hours at City of Phoenix
Cooling Centers
NEW
LIBRARY, OHRM,
OPH, OEM, FIRE
3.3 Establish Overnight Respite and Navigation
Centers at City Facilities
NEW
LIBRARY, HSD,
OHRM, OPH, OEM,
FIRE
3.4 Operate Safe Outdoor Space
NEW
OHS
3.5 Provide Shade and Cooled Rest Areas at
The Key Campus
CONTINUED
OHS
3.6 Distribute Heat Relief Network signage to
participating facilities
NEW
OHRM, FINANCE
Support Publicly
Accessible
Drinking Water
4.1 Distribute Bottled Water to Community
Organizations and Heat Relief Network Sites
CONTINUED
OHRM, FINANCE
4.2 Distribute Reusable Water Bottles Through
Heat Response Programs
CONTINUED
OHRM, PWD, OHS,
PRD
4.3 Deploy Mobile Water Unit
NEW
WSD, PWD, OHRM
4.4 Designate City Facilities as Hydrations
Stations in the Heat Relief Network
CONTINUED
PRD, HSD, OHRM
Support Cool and
Safe Home
Environments

5.1 Promote and Enforce Cooling Ordinance for
Rental Housing Units
CONTINUED
NSD, HSD, COMMS
5.2 Provide Emergency Utility Assistance
CONTINUED
HSD
5.3 Offer Low-flow Water Services Program
REVISED
WSD
5.4 Educate the Community About Electric
Utility Disconnection Rules
CONTINUED
COMMS, OHRM, 311
5.5 Offer Telephone-based Heat Wellness
Checks
REVISED
OHRM, VOL
Support Cool and
Safe Mobility and
Recreation
6.1 Promote Take a Hike, Do It Right Heat
Safety Messaging
REVISED
PRD, OHRM, FIRE
6.2 Provide Heat Safety Messaging to Transit
Riders
REVISED
PTD, LRT, OHRM
6.3 Operate City Pools for Cool Recreation
CONTINUED
PRD
6.4 Close Select Trailheads on Excessive Heat
Warning Days
REVISED
PRD
Implement Heat
Safety Measures
for Workers
7.1 Implements Heat Safety Plans in City
Departments
CONTINUED
HR

7.2 Promote State Emphasis Program on Heat
Safety
REVISED
HR, COMMS, OHRM
7.3 Develop and Adopt Heat Safety
Expectations for City Contractors
NEW
HR, LAW, FINANCE,
OHRM

8.1 Operate a Comprehensive Heat Response
Public Education Campaign
REVISED
COMMS, OHRM,
OPH, OEM, FIRE
8.2 Provide Heat Relief Funding to Community
Partners
CONTINUED
OHRM

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 12

Engage with the
Community to
Build Heat
Readiness
8.3 Distribute Youth Heat Safety Books
CONTINUED
OHRM, LIBRARY,
COMMS, OAC
8.4 Improve Engagement Strategies for People
Who Use Substances
CONTINUED
OPH, OHRM,
COMMS
8.5 Support Media Requests Related to Heat
Response
CONTINUED
OHRM, COMMS
8.6 Distribute Heat Relief Supplies to People
Experiencing Homelessness
REVISED
OHS, OHRM
8.7 Train Volunteers to Support Heat Response
Programs
REVISED
VOL, OHRM
8.8 Attend Community Events to Share Heat
Safety Resources
CONTINUED
OHRM
Collaboratively
Work Across
Department and
Agency
Boundaries
9.1 Build Incident Management Team for
Coordinated Heat Response
NEW
OEM
9.2 Convene Regular Meetings with
Departmental Liaisons
NEW
OHRM
9.3 Collect Comprehensive Evaluation Data to
Support Heat Response
REVISED
OHRM
9.4 Provide Weekly Updates on Heat Response
Programs
CONTINUED
OHRM
9.5 Participate in and Lead Cross-Agency
Engagement
REVISED
OHRM

Department key: OHRM – Office of Heat Response and Mitigation; PD – Police; COMMS – Communications; VOL – Volunteer
Programs; OAC – Arts and Culture; HSD – Human Services; Human Resources – HR; NSD – Neighborhood Services; OPH –
Public Health, OEM – Office of Emergency Management; Public Works Department – PWD; Parks and Recreation Department –
PRD; Water Services Department – WSD; Public Transit Department – PTD; Light Rail Transit - LRT.

Status key: NEW indicates new programs for 2024; REVISED indicates programs with significant changes from 2023; CONTINUED
indicates programs that will operate largely unchanged from 2023 and/or operate on an ongoing basis year-round.

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 13

STRATEGY 1:
EQUIP FIRST RESPONDERS FOR EFFECTIVE HEAT RESPONSE

 Activate summer heat response protocols

Action 1.1
The City of Phoenix Fire Department responded to more than 2,000 calls for heat emergencies
in the 2024 Heat Season. The life-saving measures taken by the Fire Department for heat
emergencies include chilled intravenous therapy and other innovative strategies designed to
reduce case severity. The Fire Department Heat Stress Management Standard Operation
Procedure (MP 206.19) provides a robust framework for minimizing the effects of heat stress on
first responders, which would have a cascading adverse impact on the community. The
framework focuses on health assessments, rest, hydration, and temperature regulation for
personnel exposed to high temperatures. Protective directives engage when temperatures
exceed 105°F, deploying additional resources and implementing enhanced rehabilitation
measures. Training exposures comply with ADOSH guidelines, further ensuring the well-being
of civilian personnel.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
FIRE
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/fire/publications/standard-operating-procedures
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

STRATEGY 2:
LEVERAGE DATA FOR INFORMED ACTION

 Adopt a tiered heat response framework

Action 2.1
Heat Response actions for 2024 will be activated as follows:
Tier 1 actions are in effect May 1 through September 30. Most actions in the Heat Response
Plan are activated for Tier 1 but may receive additional emphasis or investment during Tier 2.
Tier 2 is in effect June 15–August 15 to reflect peak efforts for the portion of the summer that
typically has the most significant public health impacts.
Tier 3 actions are in effect on days when the National Weather Service issues an Excessive
Heat Warning for any region that includes the City of Phoenix.
The start and end dates for Tier 1 and Tier 2 actions may be modified by City Management and
the Incident Management Team based on available intelligence and operational capabilities.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OEM, FIRE, OHRM, OPH
2024 STATUS
NEW
2023 STATUS / METRICS
N/A
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.weather.gov/psr/heat for NWS Excessive Heat Warning information

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 14

 Monitor City of Phoenix dispatch and first responder data Action 2.2
City staff are analyzing the Phoenix Fire Department’s dispatch and patient care data resources
in new ways to guide and evaluate heat response programs and services more effectively. New
dashboards and reporting tools have been developed to support internal planning and response
and to provide updates to City Council and the public.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OEM, FIRE, OHRM, OPH
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / DISPATCH DATA WERE ANALYZED WEEKLY
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Monitor regional data with the Arizona Heat Resilience Work Group Action 2.3
The AZ Heat Resilience Work Group meets to convene stakeholder organizations from around
Arizona to monitor heat forecasts/warnings from the National Weather Service, review
community health indicators provided by health agencies, share best practices relating to heat
response and relief, and to encourage collaboration, coordination, and development of novel
responses to preparedness and resilience to extreme heat. Diverse stakeholders participate in
the Work Group, including local, county, state, and federal government officials, regional non-
profits, faith-based institutions, academic and research partners, and community advocates.
Multiple City departments participate in the Work Group’s biweekly virtual meetings in the Heat
Season, and staff from the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation serve on the Work Group’s
steering committee.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OEM, FIRE, OHRM, OPH
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / STAFF ATTENDED ALL MEETINGS
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://globalfutures.asu.edu/sustainable-cities/az-heat-resilience-workgroup/
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 15

STRATEGY 3:
PROVIDE PUBLICLY ACCESSIBLE COOL SPACE

 Designate City facilities as Cooling Centers in the Heat Relief Network Action 3.1
The regional Heat Relief Network is coordinated by the Maricopa Association of Governments
(MAG) and consists of Respite Centers, Cooling Centers, Hydration Stations, and Donation
Sites. Cooling Centers are indoor, air-conditioned locations that also offer hydration. 17 City of
Phoenix Library locations served as Cooling Centers throughout the 2023 Heat Season and the
City will continue this commitment in 2024. All participating City facilities are listed on a publicly
accessible web map and directory hosted by MAG. A new research partnership with the Arizona
State University Knowledge Exchange for Resilience will generate data concerning the role of
Cooling Centers in reducing physiological heat stress.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
LIBRARY, OHRM
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 17 PARTICIPATING COOLING CENTERS
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://azmag.gov/Programs/Heat-Relief-Network
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Offer extended hours at City of Phoenix Cooling Centers Action 3.2
Participating facilities in the regional Heat Relief Network typically provide services coincident
with their normal hours of business operation. This model creates gaps in network availability,
particularly in the late afternoon and evening hours, as well as on weekends. To address this
deficiency, the City of Phoenix is preparing to extend the hours of three Cooling Centers to
10pm each day of the week and add capacity from noon to 10pm on Sundays throughout the
heat season. The three locations identified for this mission based on analysis of public health
and community vulnerability data as well as operational capabilities are Cholla Library, Harmon
Library, and Yucca Library. Staffing and operational models are still in development as of the
publication of the Heat Response Plan.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
LIBRARY, OHRM, OPH, OEM, FIRE
2024 STATUS
NEW
2023 STATUS / METRICS
N/A
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 16

 Establish Overnight Respite and Navigation Centers at City facilities Action 3.3
To further address deficiencies in regional Heat Relief Network availability (see Action 3.2), the
City of Phoenix will establish two overnight Respite and Navigation Centers that will operate
through the entire Heat Season. These locations will provide water and serve as a safe, cool
indoor space for refuge from the heat. They will also provide case management and navigation
services, including transportation, to help people access the wide range of other City of Phoenix
resources that are aligned with the Heat Response Plan goals. The two locations identified for
this mission based on analysis of public health and community vulnerability data as well as
operational capabilities are Burton Barr Library and the Senior Opportunities West Senior
Center. The Burton Barr Library location is anticipated to have the capacity to operate as a 24/7
Respite and Navigation Center, whereas the Senior Opportunities West location will only be
available overnight.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
LIBRARY, HSD, OHRM, OPH, OEM, FIRE
2024 STATUS
NEW
2023 STATUS / METRICS
N/A
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Operate the Safe Outdoor Space

Action 3.4
The Safe Outdoor Space at 1537 W. Jackson St. is a key component in the city’s strategy to
address homelessness around the Key Campus. It is designed as an alternative for those not
yet ready for indoor shelter during enhanced engagements, will provide a safer, shaded
environment with essential services to aid individuals in ending their homelessness. The unique
property, procured with $5.4 million in grant funding, offers both outdoor and indoor spaces. The
operation of the Safe Outdoor Space aligns with recommendations from the Strategies to
Address Homelessness Task Force and the City Manager's proposal in April 2022. Partnership
with the Arizona State University-led Southwest Integrated Field Laboratory will enable
deployment and evaluation of innovative cooling techniques on site to benefit residents.
TARGET POPULATION
PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHS
2024 STATUS
NEW
2023 STATUS / METRICS
N/A
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 17

 Provide shade and cooled rest areas at the Key Campus Action 3.5
Multiple investments made over the past three years will provide additional shade and cooled
space to individuals experiencing homelessness at the Key Campus. These investments include
shade structures and evaporative coolers that are activated on the Campus during the Heat
Season.
TARGET POPULATION
PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHS
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Distribute Heat Relief Network signage to participating facilities
Action 3.6
In partnership with the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, the City of Phoenix will
coordinate the distribution of physical signage to facilities that participate in the regional Heat
Relief Network. Items to be distributed include A-frame/sandwich board-style signs, yard signs,
and window clings. Signage will be available in multiple languages with a regionally consistent
brand identity.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM, FINANCE
2024 STATUS
NEW
2023 STATUS / METRICS
N/A
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
BEFORE HEAT SEASON AND TIER 1

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 18

STRATEGY 4:
INCREASE ACCESS TO DRINKING WATER

 Distribute water to community organizations and Heat Relief Network sites Action 4.1
The City of Phoenix coordinates a water bottle distribution program that serves community- and
faith-based organizations as well as City of Phoenix Heat Relief Network sites. In 2023, nearly
400,000 bottles were distributed to community partners and approximately 100,000 bottles were
distributed to Cooling Centers and Hydration Stations. This action relies on a combination of
City of Phoenix funding and charitable financial or in-kind contributions. In 2023, this program
was reassigned to be managed by Office of Heat Response and Mitigation and Finance
Department. The two units collaborated to create a new request management system and
logistical workflow for the program.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM, FINANCE
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 494,112 BOTTLES TO 35 COMMUNITY ORGS. AND CITY
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS MAY CONTACT HEATREADYPHX@PHOENIX.ORG
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Distribute reusable water bottles through Heat Response programs Action 4.2
City staff will continue to integrate and expand the use of reusable water bottles through heat
relief outreach efforts and the City’s Heat Relief Network sites. This action provides more
durable bottles for community use relative to single use plastic bottles and support’s the City’s
Zero Waste goals. The reusable lightweight aluminum bottles deployed in 2023 featured
multiple custom designs printed with Phoenix-specific heat safety information, including QR
codes linked to the regional Heat Relief Network map and hiking safety information on the Parks
and Recreation Department Take a Hike, Do it Right website.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM, PWD, OHS, PRD
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 7,248 REUSABLE ALUMINUM BOTTLES DISTRIBUTED
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 19

 Deploy mobile water unit

Action 4.3
The City of Phoenix Water Department and Public Works Department designed and procured a
mobile drinking water unit with refrigeration that was completed and delivered by the vendor in
late 2023. Staff are now developing operational models and being trained on operational and
safety procedures for the mobile water unit in advance of its expected deployment for the 2024
Heat Season. The unit will be deployed to community events and will augment heat relief
outreach efforts. The mobile water unit provides the equivalent amount of water as 4,400 single
use plastic bottles.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE, SPECIAL EVENT ATTENDEES
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
WSD, PWD, OHRM
2024 STATUS
NEW
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN PLANNING STAGE / MOBILE WATER UNIT WAS BUILT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

 Designate City facilities as Hydration Stations in the Heat Relief Network Action 4.4
The regional Heat Relief Network is coordinated by the Maricopa Association of Governments
(MAG) and consists of Respite Centers, Cooling Centers, Hydration Stations, and Donation
Sites. Hydration Stations are indoor or outdoor locations that offer bottled water and may offer
other heat relief resources. 45 City of Phoenix facilities as Hydration Stations throughout the
2023 Heat Season and the City will continue this commitment in 2024. All participating City
facilities are listed on a publicly accessible web map and directory hosted by MAG.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
PRD, HSD, OHRM
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 45 PARTICIPATING HYDRATION STATIONS
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://azmag.gov/Programs/Heat-Relief-Network
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 20

STRATEGY 5:
SUPPORT COOL AND SAFE HOME ENVIRONMENTS

 Promote and enforce cooling ordinance for rental housing units
Action 5.1
The Neighborhood Services Department enforces the City’s cooling ordinance, which sets
minimum temperature requirements for cooling systems in all single and multi-family rental
housing units. Every rental housing unit must be capable of safely cooling all inhabitable rooms
to 86°F if cooled by evaporative cooling and 82°F if cooled by air conditioning. The Human
Services Department also operates a Landlord Tenant program that helps parties understand
their rights and responsibilities concerning. The City proactively promotes these and related
programs throughout the Heat Season.
TARGET POPULATION
RENTERS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
NSD, HSD, COMMS
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/nsdsite/Documents/NPD%20Documents/Cooling%20Ordinance%2
0Flyer.pdf
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

 Provide emergency utility assistance Action 5.2
The Human Services Department operates the City’s utility assistance program for residents,
which aids in the coverage of costs for electricity, water, and gas services. Assistance is
provided through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and local utility assistance funding
initiatives. Priority populations for this support include seniors, disabled, and medically involved
individuals, families with young children, and renters facing an imminent eviction crisis. The
utility assistance program operates year-round and will be promoted as a heat response
strategy during the heat season.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
HSD
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/humanservices
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 21

 Offer Low-Flow Water Service Program
Action 5.3
The Water Services Department is continuing and expanding its innovative Low-Flow Water
Service Program. This program provides a vital lifeline for customers experiencing difficulty
paying their water bills, offering essential water services for up to three months. By ensuring
continued access to water for basic needs, such as hydration, while residents work to resolve
challenges with bill payment, the City strives to alleviate the burdens associated with extreme
heat and financial strain. As part of this update, customers will be directed to
phoenix.gov/resources for comprehensive assistance with their bills, underscoring our
commitment to supporting residents through challenging times and fostering community
resilience.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
WSD
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

 Educate the community about electric utility disconnection rules Action 5.4
To augment efforts by Arizona Public Service (APS) and Salt River Project (SRP), City staff will
deliver public-facing message and provide internal training to relevant departments regarding
Heat Season electrical utility disconnection rules. As of the publication of this plan, APS and
SRP have different disconnection rules and procedures. APS suspends disconnections for
nonpayment between June 1 and October 15; SRP suspends disconnections on National
Weather Service Excessive Heat Warning Days. Both utilities offer a wide range of services and
support to help customers avoid disconnection.

TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
COMMS, OHRM
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
N/A
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.aps.com/en/Residential/Billing-and-Payment/Payment-Policies
https://blog.srpnet.com/heat-moratoriums-excessive-heat-warnings-explained/
IN EFFECT
VARIES BY UTILITY

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 22

 Offer telephone-based heat wellness checks

Action 5.5
The city will leverage external partners and collaborate with additional city departments to
reform and relaunch the Cool Callers outreach program initiated in 2022. Volunteers, trained by
City staff, will continue conducting telephone-based wellness checks for residents who opt into
the program. These volunteers will inquire about residents' health status and the adequacy of
their home cooling systems, while also providing information on the city’s emergency utility
program, weatherization program, cooling centers, hydration stations, services available from
utility companies, and emergency medical services as needed. The goal for this program in
2024 is to expand outreach efforts and reach a broader pool of community members, building
upon the successes and lessons learned from the pilot programs conducted in summer 2022
and 2023, with the aim of ensuring the well-being of residents during periods of extreme heat.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM, VOL
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN PILOT STAGE
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/heat
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

STRATEGY 6:
SUPPORT COOL AND SAFE MOBILITY AND RECREATION

 Promote Take a Hike, Do it Right Heat Safety Messaging Action 6.1
The Parks and Recreation Department’s “Take a Hike, Do it Right” campaign provides
consistent messaging regarding heat and trail safety measures with large signage at city
trailheads and parallel messaging on city websites and social media feeds. Parks rangers are
trained in heat illness symptom recognition and make frequent direct contact with trail users
during the summer months to ensure adequate preparedness. On days with temperatures
exceeding 110°F, rangers are deployed to selected popular trailheads to provide additional heat
safety messaging to residents. Where possible, water is provided in 5-gallon coolers to help
hikers refill personal water bottles. Park Stewards known as Camelback Navigators and We’re
Cool volunteers (primary comprised of members of the Phoenix Community Emergency
Response Team) support staff in providing heat safety messaging and resources throughout the
Heat Season at select trailheads. Parking lot entrances at select trailheads have extended
hours during the summer months to promote hiking during cooler parts of the day. Dogs are
prohibited from all City of Phoenix trails when temperatures reach 100°F.
TARGET POPULATION
HIKERS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
PRD, OHRM, FIRE
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 200+ HOURS OF VOLUNTEER SUPPORT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/parkssite/Pages/take-a-hike-do-it-right.aspx
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 23

 Provide heat safety messaging to transit riders Action 6.2
Valley Metro and the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation are partnering to increase heat
safety messaging for public transit users. New and improved initiatives for summer 2024 include
heat relief resource cards for contracted security staff, social media messaging, kiosk posters,
pop-up messaging in the Valley Metro app, and audio messaging at platforms. With support
from the City of Phoenix Transit and Light Rail Departments, Valley Metro continues to improve
the ability for transit system users to monitor bus and train movements in real time, which
enables them to spend less time outdoors waiting for services.
TARGET POPULATION
TRANSIT USERS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
PTD, LRT, OHRM
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Operate City pools for cool recreation

Action 6.3
The Parks and Recreation Department operates a network of public pools throughout the city
that provide heat relief and safe summer recreational opportunities for residents. Recruitment
bonuses were offered for summer 2023 to increase the number of lifeguards on staff, in
response to shortages in previous years that constrained pool access. The Departments’ “Kool
Kids” program reduces or eliminates cost barriers to enter select city pools for Phoenix youth.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
PRD
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/pools
IN EFFECT
VARIES BY LOCATION

 Close select trailheads on Excessive Heat Warning days

Action 6.4
The Parks Board voted in October 2021 to close the summit trails at Piestewa Peak and
Camelback Mountain at certain times on summer days for which the National Weather Service
has issued an Excessive Heat Warning; Parks staff enforces these trail closures. Parks Board
updated the policy in August 2023 to amend the closure times to 9am and 5pm on any days for
which the National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning; Parks staff
enforces these trail closures.
TARGET POPULATION
HIKERS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
PRD
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / TRAIL CLOSURES ON 42 DAYS
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/take-a-hike-do-it-right to receive alerts
IN EFFECT
TIER 3

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 24

STRATEGY 7:
IMPLEMENT HEAT SAFETY MEASURES FOR WORKERS

 Implement heat safety plans in City departments
Action 7.1
The Human Resources Safety division has developed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Plans
with departments whose employees face extreme heat safety dangers during their work duties.
These plans work to minimize or eliminate employee exposures to heat related hazards that
may lead to serious injuries, illnesses or death. These plans outline each department’s safety
controls and policies to mitigate heat related hazards, procedures to follow should a heat related
illness or injury occur and training to ensure employees are familiar with their department’s plan.
TARGET POPULATION
CITY EMPLOYEES
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
HR
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

 Promote State Emphasis Program on Heat Safety
Action 7.2
The Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health launched a State Emphasis Program
on Heat Safety in July 2023. The City of Phoenix will promote this program and other state and
federal resources related to worker safety as a component of the broader heat response public
education campaign.
TARGET POPULATION
WORKERS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
HR, COMMS, OHRM
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://test-az2-ica.pantheonsite.io/sites/default/files/2023-
09/Arizona%20Heat%20SEP%20CPL_03-00-024%202.0.pdf
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

 Develop and adopt heat safety expectations for City contractors Action 7.3
City staff are exploring opportunities to implement new requirements in City procurement
processes and/or City contracts related to heat safety. These requirements would ensure that
City-engaged businesses (contractors and sub-contractors) have relevant and effective heat
safety plans in place.
TARGET POPULATION
WORKERS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
HR, LAW, FINANCE, OHRM
2024 STATUS
NEW
2023 STATUS / METRICS
N/A
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
N/A

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 25

STRATEGY 8:
ENGAGE WITH THE COMMUNITY TO BUILD HEAT READINESS

 Operate a comprehensive heat response public education campaign
Action 8.1
The City will increase the modalities and reach of public messaging related to heat response in
2024 through a comprehensive public education campaign. The goal of the campaign is to
maximize community awareness of heat illness symptoms, available resources, and
opportunities to participate in heat response initiatives. Historically, the City has shared heat
safety and cooling resource information through print and digital communication channels,
including social media. The City also hosts multiple websites with heat safety information and
links to related resources, including phoenix.gov/heat and phoenix.gov/summer. These
resources will be updated and new resources will be created for the 2024 heat season to more
effectively engage with heat-vulnerable populations and the community at large.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
COMMS, ORHM, OPH, OEM, FIRE
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/pio/summer
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Provide heat relief funding to community partners

Action 8.2
In 2023, the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation established a Heat Relief Grant program to
support community organizations whose efforts aligned with the goals of the Heat Response
Plan. City Council allocated $450,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding to support this
program. The grants were intended to augment the efforts of community organizations that offer
a wide range of services to meet the needs of heat-vulnerable residents. Heat relief grants for
the 2023 and 2024 heat season were awarded to 19 community organizations. To date,
grantees have reported more than 45,000 engagements with community members related to
this funding. Community members have received heat relief supplies, accessed cooled space,
and received case management through this funding.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 45,061 ENGAGEMENTS SUPPORTED
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 26

 Distribute youth heat safety books

Action 8.3
The City will continue to distribute the “Hot Days, Cool Fun” workbook developed in 2023 to
promote heat safety awareness for younger community members. The workbook was
developed collaboratively between the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation, Office of Arts
and Culture, and Arizona State University. It is available in English and Spanish.
TARGET POPULATION
YOUTH
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM, LIBRARY, COMMS, OAC
2024 STATUS
CONTINUTED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/heatsite/Documents/heatact_book_pdf3.pdf
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Improve engagement strategies for people who use substances Action 8.4
The Office of Heat Response and Mitigation in partnership with the Office of Public Health will
continue efforts to improve heat related outcomes for people who use drugs and alcohol.
Substance use was a factor in 73% of heat-related deaths in the City of Phoenix in 2023 and a
factor in 89% of the heat-related deaths among people experiencing homelessness. Efforts in
2024 will include the continuation of the naloxone program through heat outreach and cooling
centers, education on overdose signs, symptoms, and response. In addition, OHRM and OPH
will develop and implement heat risk messaging and tools in partnership with overdose and
disease prevention agencies and services supporting people who use drugs.
TARGET POPULATION
SUBSTANCE USERS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM, OPH, COMMS
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/healthsite/Pages/Naloxone.aspx
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Support media requests related to heat response Action 8.5
City staff help build public awareness of heat safety strategies and community cooling resources
by participating as subject matter experts in requested interviews. Media requests related to
heat response programs are coordinated by the Communications Office and filled by
departments as appropriate to the request. The City also hosts a pre-heat season media event
coincident with Arizona Heat Awareness Week with a wide range of city departments and
external partners available for interviews, and provides periodic media pool availability through
the heat season. In 2023, the Communications Office coordinated more than 100 requests from
local, national, and international outlets related to the City’s Heat Response Plan and programs.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
COMMS, OHRH, OPH, OEM, FIRE
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 100+ MEDIA REQUESTS FILLED
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/pio
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 27

 Distribute heat relief supplies to people experiencing homelessness
Action 8.6
The City proactively engages with people experiencing homelessness through the daily work of
professional outreach specialists from the Office of Homeless Solutions. In the 2024 heat
season, these outreach teams will be equipped with heat relief resource kits including water and
other heat relief supplies and information about community cooling resources. This is a shift in
the City’s operational model for distributing heat relief supplies and cooling resource information
to people experiencing homelessness, which previously involved a larger share of volunteer
efforts through the We’re Cool program. The shift leverages increased capacity in the Office of
Homeless Solutions, ensures that the most qualified personnel are engaged with a highly
vulnerable population, and creates new opportunities for volunteers to support heat programs.
TARGET POPULATION
PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHS, OHRM
2024 STATUS
ENHANCED INITIATIVE FROM 2023
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 29,000+ ITEMS DISTRIBUTED
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Train volunteers to support heat response programs
Action 8.7
Volunteers play a critical role in supporting the Heat Response Plan. In previous years,
volunteers have participated in street outreach efforts, provided public education, distributed
resources, conducted telephone wellness checks, augmented staffing at heat relief network
facilities, and helped organize heat relief supplies. The Offices of Volunteer Programs, Heat
Response and Mitigation, and Public Health will continue to develop training programs to enable
volunteers to support heat response programs as safely and effectively as possible.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM, VOL
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 1,700 VOLUNTEER HOURS CONTRIBUTED
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://volunteer.phoenix.gov/
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Attend community events to share heat safety resources Action 8.8
The Office of Heat Response and Mitigation will help raise awareness of heat response
initiatives by supporting requests to participate in community gatherings, fairs, and outreach
events throughout the heat season. Staff will provide an informational booth and engage with
attendees to raise awareness about heat safety measures, distribute educational materials, and
provide guidance on accessing community cooling resources.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 28

STRATEGY 9:
COLLABORATIVELY WORK ACROSS DEPARTMENT AND AGENCY BOUNDARIES

 Build Incident Management Team for coordinated heat response Action 9.1
Beginning in 204, the City of Phoenix will adopt an Incident Management Team (IMT)
framework for the Heat Season. The Office of Emergency Management is well suited to
integrate a unified command approach covering all phases of the City’s Extreme Heat
Response efforts. Implementation of an IMT will effectively provide a command-and-control
element to systematically coordinate and manage the collective resources and personnel the
City of Phoenix is committing to reduce public health risks associated with extreme heat.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OEM
2024 STATUS
NEW
2023 STATUS / METRICS
N/A
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

 Convene regular meetings with departmental liaisons
Action 9.2
In coordination with the Incident Management Team, cross-departmental meetings with heat
response liaisons from individual departments will be convened on a biweekly basis at minimum
through the 2024 heat season. These meetings will help raise collective awareness of the entire
portfolio of heat response programs and services offered by the City and provide updates
concerning program status, weather forecasts, and health impacts.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM, OEM, OPH
2024 STATUS
NEW
2023 STATUS / METRICS
N/A
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

 Collect comprehensive evaluation data to support heat response Action 9.3
The City will continue its efforts to gather and analyze a wide range of data related to the Heat
Response Plan. These data include outcome and process measures, as well as qualitative
feedback from program administrators, community partners, and individuals receiving City
services. The addition of new staff in the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation in 2023 will
enable a more rigorous evaluation process for the 2024 Heat Season to ensure that heat
response efforts remain adaptive, evidence-based, and responsive to community needs.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM
2024 STATUS
REVISED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
N/A
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 29

 Provide weekly updates on heat response programs

Action 9.4
The Office of Heat Response and Mitigation will publish a weekly status report throughout the
Heat Season, offering insights into the ongoing implementation of heat response programs and
services. This report will feature highlights, recommendations for program adjustments as
needed, and summaries of pertinent weather and health data. In response to feedback from city
staff and external partners, the format and content of this report have been revised for the year
2024. All weekly heat reports are posted and archived online.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT / 12 WEEKLY REPORTS PUBLISHED IN 2023
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/heat
IN EFFECT
TIER 1

 Participate in and lead cross-agency engagement

Action 9.5
The City will continue to participate in, and where appropriate, lead, heat response initiatives
across a wide range of governance scales. Examples of past and ongoing efforts include a two-
day regional heat planning workshop convened with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) in February 2023, a City-organized roundtable discussion on heat,
health, and homelessness with regional partners in April 2023, and participation as a NOAA
Heat and Equity Pilot Project city. Phoenix also participated in the Arizona Heat Planning
Summit held in October 2023 and has provided input to the forthcoming Statewide Heat
Preparedness Plan. The City recognizes the importance of coordination across governance
scales to ensure that resources are deployed as effectively as possible to support the goals of
the Heat Response Plan.
TARGET POPULATION
CITYWIDE
LEAD DEPARTMENT(S)
OHRM, OEM, OPH
2024 STATUS
CONTINUED FROM PRIOR YEARS
2023 STATUS / METRICS
ACTION WAS IN EFFECT
RESOURCES / MORE INFO.
https://www.phoenix.gov/heat
IN EFFECT
TIER 1 AND YEAR-ROUND

City of Phoenix 2024 Heat Response Plan | 30

Acknowledgments

The City of Phoenix appreciates the efforts of all community partners who are working to reduce
the adverse impacts of extreme heat. The organizations listed below participate in actions listed
in the Heat Response Plan, have provided guidance on the City’s heat response strategies, or
have published plans and reports from which the Heat Response Plan draws content and
inspiration.

City of Phoenix Mayor and Council Offices
Office of Mayor Kate Gallego
Office of Vice Mayor Debra Stark, District 3
Office of Ann O’Brien, District 1
Office of Jim Waring, District 2
Office of Debra Stark, District 3
Office of Laura Pastor, District 4
Office of Betty Guardado, District 5
Office of Kevin Robinson District 6
Office of Yassamin Ansari, District 7
Office of Kesha Hodge Washington, District 8

City of Phoenix Departments and Functions
Arts & Culture, Aviation, City Manager’s Office, Communications, Environmental Programs,
Fire, Heat Response and Mitigation, Emergency Management, Homeless Solutions, Housing,
Human Resources, Human Services, Innovation, Library, Light Rail Transit, Neighborhood
Services, Parks and Recreation, Police, Public Health, Public Transit, Public
Works, Sustainability, Volunteer Programs, and Water Services.

Local, Regional, and National Partners
Arizona Department of Health Services, Arizona Faith Network, Arizona Heat Resilience Work
Group, Arizona Public Service, Arizona State University, Bloomberg Associates,
C40 Cool Cities Network, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Chispa AZ,
Community Bridges, Inc., Crisis Response Network, Healthy Giving Council, Keys to
Change, Maricopa Association of Governments, Maricopa County Department of Emergency
Management, Maricopa County Department of Public Health, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service Phoenix Forecast Office, Nature
Conservancy Arizona Healthy Cities Program, Phoenix Community Emergency Response
Team, Phoenix Parks Foundation, Phoenix Revitalization Corporation, Salt River
Project, Sustainable Cities Network, University of Arizona, Valley Metro, and Valley of the Sun
United Way.

Funding Partners
The City of Phoenix Heat Response initiatives benefit from financial resources made available
through grant programs offered by the Arizona Department of Housing, Arizona State
University, Environmental Protection Agency, Gila River Indian Community, and Maricopa
County Department of Public Health.