The Environmental Services Department, part of the Sustainability Services Area, supports our community's values and adopted policy goals by offering programs and services that improve indoor and outdoor air quality, implement climate action planning and reporting, increase recycling and waste diversion, coordinate municipal sustainability activities, undertake environmental data management, and participate in strategic municipal and community efforts.
Extreme Heat#
Extreme heat is defined by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as summertime temperatures that are much hotter and/or humid than the average for that location. Fort Collins is experiencing more very hot days (95⁰F+) and this can negatively impact our health and safety.
Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, more than 1,220 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year (CDC, 2024). Heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke, happen when the body is not able to properly cool itself.
How to stay safe during an extreme heat event:#
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Visit National Weather Service’s Heat Risk Map to inform your activities.
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Use air conditioners or spend time in air-conditioned places, such as malls, community centers, libraries, or other cool locations. Even a few hours in air conditioning can keep the body cool.
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Use electric fans to provide comfort when the temperature is below 95°F. At higher temperature, fans can make sweat evaporate more quickly from your body and is less helpful or safe.
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Stay hydrated—drink water or beverages without caffeine, avoiding sugar, or alcohol throughout the day.
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Use a cold compress, take a cool shower or bath to help cool off.
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Know the symptoms of heat-related illnesses and the appropriate responses. Learn more by clicking here.
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Check on older adults or others who are at higher risk, at least two times a day. Watch them closely for heat exhaustion or heat stroke symptoms.
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Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes and a hat.
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Minimize direct exposure to sunlight and wear SPF 15+ sunblock.
Learn more about identifying the signs of heat illness, keeping infants and children cool, and keeping your pets safe at the CDC’s Extreme Heat and Your Health page and the CDPHE's Heat and Health page.
Environmental Services Programs#
Municipal Sustainability - Leading By Example#
The City of Fort Collins is committed to providing world-class municipal services, both today and as we grow and change in the future. In order to do so, our organization must be sustainable and resilient. Since the City’s first Municipal Sustainability Plan in 2013, we have learned more about what sustainability and resilience means within the City organization and its operations.
Sustainability is woven into the City’s strategy and stewardship is one of our values. The Municipal Sustainability and Adaptation Plan (MSAP) is our roadmap for a sustainable organization. Being sustainable and resilient means that we can continue to provide world-class services and demonstrate excellence and innovation in our daily work.
Access Fort Collins#
Do you have questions about the environment for City staff? Whether you're curious about indoor air quality, climate action, recycling or municipal sustainability—or anything else connected to the City—Access Fort Collins is your one-stop shop to get in touch with City staff!
Submit your questions and we'll get them to the employees best equipped to help.