NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 20259GOV BUSINESS REVIEWBuilding on a Proven FrameworkIn 2023, Phoenix set the standard by piloting a heat response model that applied ICS principles to seasonal extreme heat. This is an all-hazards concept but one that is traditionally reserved for incidents such as wildfires, floods, or mass casualty events. The Phoenix model demonstrated the power of a coordinated, cross-sector response to heat emergencies and informed Chandler's planning process in early 2025.Taking inspiration from that success, Chandler adapted the ICS model to fit the city's structure, launching its first Heat Relief Unified Team ahead of the 2025 heat season. Chandler's goal was to create a unified approach that brings city departments, nonprofits, and regional partners under one response structure, allowing the city to scale up quickly and serve residents more efficiently when temperatures soar. These planning efforts will ensure local resources are available to best protect residents from extreme heat. A Unified Team with Tactical PrecisionThe Heat Relief Unified Team is utilizing Incident Action Plans (IAP) to outline a clearly defined command and control structure. The IAP's operational focus spans both day and overnight respite centers, cooling facilities, mobile outreach teams, and emergency sheltering resources. The unified command structure brings together representatives from Chandler's Emergency Management and Neighborhood Resources divisions, coordinating closely with multiple city departments, nonprofit partners, while maintaining a shared operating picture with local, county, and state agencies involved in emergency management and public health.Vulnerable Populations in Extreme HeatReaching vulnerable populations is a central focus of Chandler's heat response strategy. The plan prioritizes proactive engagement with individuals at highest risk, including people experiencing homelessness, older adults, those with chronic health conditions, and anyone lacking access to adequate cooling. Mobile outreach teams are deployed to high-risk areas such as parks and transit centers, where they provide direct support and share critical information. These field-level interactions foster trust and build sustained relationships rooted in care, compassion, and community connection.In parallel, Chandler has expanded access to indoor cooling spaces by coordinating a network of daytime and overnight locations that offer essential services including water, meals, hygiene supplies, and transportation. These efforts reflect a strategic, compassionate approach to ensuring that those most affected by extreme heat have consistent and reliable access to lifesaving resources.By addressing not just immediate needs but also the underlying factors that affect well-being (access to rest, nutrition, hydration, and a safe, cool environment) Chandler's heat response aims to promote long-term stability and resilience. When basic human needs are met, individuals are better equipped to engage with community resources, support themselves, and contribute meaningfully to society.Data-Driven ResponseThe effort is timely. Arizona continues to experience a surge in heat-related illnesses. In 2024, the Arizona Department of Health Services recorded 5,974 heat-related emergency department visits with Maricopa County (where Chandler is located) accounting for the highest numbers. Chandler's Incident Action Plan includes ongoing data collection and analysis to inform real-time response and guide future operational decisions.Looking ForwardChandler's effort reflects a larger statewide shift. Governor Katie Hobbs' 2024 Extreme Heat Executive Order emphasized the need for cross-agency heat coordination, calling on local governments to adopt new models of response. Chandler's adoption of an ICS-based team is a direct answer to that call.Effective heat response solutions is a hot topic throughout Arizona (pun intended). Collaboration is phenomenal with various statewide discussion boards, situation reports, and heat response partner meetings occurring at all levels of government within Arizona and amongst public and private partnerships and community-based organizations locally. As record-breaking temperatures continue to occur each year, Chandler's Heat Relief Unified Team offers a replicable, scalable blueprint to continue to protect Chandler residents to strengthen resiliency within the community and to ultimately save lives. Collaboration is phenomenal with various statewide discussion boards, situation reports, and heat response partner meetings occurring at all levels of government within Arizona and amongst public and private partnerships and community-based organizations locally.
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