Extreme Heat: Code Red

The Department of Homeless Services (DHS) has a policy called “Code Red” for extreme heat. Code Red Level 1 is in effect from 12pm-8pm when forecasted high temperatures reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for one day or more, or are forecasted to reach 95 degrees Fahrenheit or higher at any point for two consecutive days or more. Code Red Level 2 declaration occurs when forecasted high temperatures reach 105 degrees or more Fahrenheit for any duration or are forecasted to reach 95 degrees Fahrenheit for four days or more, and is in effect continually for the duration of the extreme heat.

What Changes When Code Red is in Effect?

During a Heat Emergency, DHS conducts additional outreach to New Yorkers who are unsheltered encouraging them to visit DHS drop-in centers where a cool space will be open to serve as many clients as possible. People who are homeless and experiencing heat-related discomfort will also be able to access the designated cooling area at any shelter.

• Drop-in centers are required to take as many clients as possible.
• Anyone in need of a place to go can walk into DHS shelters, without undergoing typical intake and eligibility procedures for the night in question. For single adults who have resided in a DHS shelter in the past, clients can access any shelter, not just their assigned shelter for the night in question.
• Cooling vans or centers may be provided.
• More outreach teams will be on the streets to offer services and shelter.
• No shelter suspensions or sanctions can be carried out, and clients who have been sanctioned can return to the shelter while Code Red is in effect, if necessary.
• Anyone in need of a cool place to go can walk into hospital emergency rooms. [Please note: Hospital waiting room access may be affected due to the public health crisis.]
• Shelters will store clients’ belongings overnight during a Code Red Level 2.
• Families with children and adult families determined ineligible for shelter can request transportation to a cooling center with available capacity during Code Red Level 1 and will be granted overnight or conditional placement during Code Red Level 2.
• Families with children and adult families determined ineligible for shelter will not be logged out of shelter during Code Red Level 2.