DOC Summer 2026 Heat Action Plan

PROVISIONS FOR PEOPLE IN CUSTODY

The Department prioritizes placing individuals who have been clinically designated as heat-sensitive by Correctional Health Services (CHS) in housing units with air conditioning.  Individuals designated as heat-sensitive have the right to refuse heat-sensitive housing if they desire. Those who wish to refuse are required to do so in the presence of a medical provider with whom they have consulted. In rare instances, security placement needs may override a heat sensitivity designation. Individuals who are not currently designated heat-sensitive but wish to have their status reevaluated by CHS may contact the Health Triage line at any time. Individuals experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness will be taken to the clinic for evaluation.

The Department remains committed to providing air-conditioned accommodations to heat-sensitive individuals throughout the year in accordance with our policy. The majority of individuals in the Department’s care were housed in air-conditioned housing units as of May 4, 2026.

The Department’s policy requires accommodating individuals clinically designated as heat-sensitive in air-conditioned housing, consistent with any current medical restrictions and with considerations for overall operational security, unless a signed heat-sensitive housing refusal form is received.

The majority of the Department’s housing units are equipped with air conditioning. While the age of the infrastructure in some of our locations present impediments to adding air conditioning to every housing unit, the Department continues to devise methods to add air conditioning wherever possible. The Department looks forward to the new borough-based jails, which will be designed with climate control features throughout.