There’s a lot happening in Philadelphia this summer. That’s especially so with FIFA World Cup activities and America250 celebrations now underway across the city. The Health Department wants visitors and residents to take advantage of this summer’s abundant activities, but we want everyone to stay healthy and safe when attending events outdoors. Here are a few things to know before you go.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Fewer trees, more paved surfaces, and tall buildings make the city hotter and more humid during the day and into the night. One hot day can lead to health problems, but consecutive hot-weather days can be even more dangerous. Time outside in the heat can make people sick and could cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Know the signs.

Someone with heat exhaustion might experience:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Headache
  • Weakness
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting

It’s important to monitor these symptoms and seek medical attention if they persist.

Someone with heat stroke might experience:

  • A throbbing headache
  • Very high body temperature (103 degrees Fahrenheit or above)
  • Red, hot, and dry skin without sweating
  • Loss of consciousness

Heat stroke is an emergency, so it’s important to call 911 for immediate medical attention.

Know what’s happening outside your window

Check the weather from our partners at the National Weather Service (NWS) or check NWS updates  on X before you attend an outdoor event.

Check the City’s digital resource hub for timely event updates, including heat health guidance, public safety information, and frequently asked questions for both residents and visitors. The digital resource hub is continuously updated with new information.

During a prolonged stretch of heat, the Health Department could declare a Heat Health Emergency and open cooling centers throughout the city. Stay informed and look for announcements about Heat Health Emergencies and cooling centers near you.

Know how to beat the heat

When warmer weather is in the forecast:

  • Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
  • Wear sunscreen.
  • During hot and humid weather, if you have a respiratory condition like asthma, you may need to limit your time outside.
  • Let someone know if you feel sick. If you start feeling dizzy, overheated, or nauseous, ask for help right away. A friend or event official can make sure you get medical attention as soon as possible.

Know about the air that you breathe

Hot weather can factor into air quality, which can impact your health. Stay up to date on air quality in Philadelphia. It’s important, especially for people who have pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) might declare a Code Orange Air Quality Action Day when outdoor activity could impact sensitive groups.

To check air quality in Philadelphia, check out the Health Department’s Breathe Philly Dashboard , which gives real-time air-quality data from 75 sensors placed throughout the city.

Know before you go and have fun

By all means, enjoy everything the city has to offer this summer. There’s so much to see and do. But please stay informed so that you’re healthy and safe. Know before you go, Philly, and have fun.

Learn more about extreme heat in Philadelphia.