DOC Summer 2025 Heat Action Plan

KEEPING PEOPLE COOL

During the summer, all individuals in custody are afforded both shorts and t-shirts. As of May 7, 2025, the Department’s warehouse inventory has approximately 31,000 short-sleeved t-shirts and approximately 21,000 shorts, with recurring deliveries of T-shirts and shorts scheduled throughout the summer. Summer uniforms distribution began on May 19, 2025.

Departmental staff are also encouraged to wear their summer uniforms which consist of short-sleeved shirts in the warmer months to help them maintain a comfortable temperature while in the facilities. 

All non-air-conditioned housing units are provided with a minimum of two industrial-sized fans to ensure continuous circulation of air. The Department currently has 301 pedestal fans in its warehouse in addition to the fans that are at facilities. Ice will be available and delivered to housing units on a regular basis during the hottest hours of the day and every two hours to individuals in housing units that are not air-conditioned. Facilities have been directed to begin bagging and storing ice in anticipation of the hot weather.

Our Facility Maintenance and Repair Division has been diligently working to ensure air conditioners, ice dispensers, and cool showers are functioning properly in anticipation of the hot weather.