The Health Commissioner declares a Code Red Heat Alert during periods of extreme heat. The decision to activate a Code Red Heat Alert on a particular day will be made before 6 A.M. of that day, if possible.
Individuals unsure of whether a Code Red Heat Alert is in effect can call 311 for details. 311 operators will provide cooling center locations, safety tips and information about warning signs for heat-related morbidity.
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Individuals can also call 311 to report specific concerns about vulnerable neighbors on Code Red Heat Alert days. Call 911 if you are having a heat-related emergency.
Those without electricity are particularly vulnerable to heat-related health problems. Baltimore City health care providers can request energy assistance referral forms for their patients by calling 410-396-CARE (2273).
The Mayor’s Office of Human Services will coordinate water distribution to people throughout the city who are homeless.
Cooling Centers
The Community Action Partnership* will open the following cooling centers on Code Red Heat Alert days. Centers are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and from 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on weekends.
- Northern Community Action Partnership Center
5225 York Road
(410) 396-6084 - Southern Community Action Partnership Center (closed on Sundays)
606 Cherry Hill Road (inside the shopping center 2nd floor)
(410) 545-0900 - Northwest Community Action Partnership Center
3939 Reisterstown Road
(443) 984-1384 - Southeast Community Action Partnership Center
3411 Bank Street
(410) 545-6518
The Health Department’s Division of Aging and CARE Services will open the following senior centers* during a Code Red Heat Alert from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays only.
- Waxter Center for Senior Citizens
1000 Cathedral Street
(410) 396-1324 - Oliver Center
1700 Gay Street
(410) 396-3861 - Sandtown-Winchester Senior Center
1601 N. Baker Street
(410) 396-7724 - Hatton Center
2825 Fait Avenue
(410) 396-9025 - John Booth
2601 E. Baltimore St.
(410) 396-9202 - Zeta Center
4501 Reisterstown Rd.
(410) 396-3535
*Community Action Partnership Centers and Baltimore City Health Departments are closed on holidays.
Additional cooling centers may be opened during an extended heat event. Please call 311 before leaving home for the latest cooling center hours and information.
Tips on Staying Cool
During periods of extreme heat, the Baltimore City Health Department recommends that city residents:
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Reduce outside activities and stay inside in air-conditioned locations
- Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles, even for short periods of time
- Check on older, sick, or frail neighbors who may need help responding to the heat
Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which include:
- Confusion
- Hot, dry, flushed skin or cool and clammy skin
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Call 911 immediately if any of these symptoms occur
