DOC Summer 2026 Heat Action Plan

TEMPERATURE MONITORING & HIGH-HEAT PROTOCOLS

Staff in every housing area monitors individuals in custody for signs of heat-related illness. Additionally, CHS is available 24/7 to care for any individual experiencing heat-related symptoms or who wishes to clarify their heat sensitivity status. 

The Department conducts daily temperature monitoring in the restricted housing units, mental health, air-conditioned units and medical clinics. Temperature reports are submitted to the Assistant Commissioner for Environmental Health, Wardens and Tour Commanders of each facility. The Department’s Office of Constituent and Grievance Services will monitor and report all heat-related grievances from all sources daily to executive leadership so that all reports can be addressed immediately and in real time.
 
When ambient temperatures exceed 80 degrees in air-conditioned areas, two-hour temperature monitoring is initiated, maintenance responds to repair air conditioning if needed, and heat-sensitive individuals are temporarily relocated to an area that is below 80 degrees Fahrenheit if the AC cannot be repaired in a timely manner.

In non-air-conditioned areas at least two fans are provided, and ice is delivered between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. on all days when the outside temperatures reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit. 
The Department recommends all individuals take additional rest periods and cool showers to manage high-heat conditions.

One shower station per non-air-conditioned housing area is designated as a cool shower station to encourage individuals to take cool showers.