Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield signed an executive order July 1 directing city departments to take protective actions during periods of extreme heat, including halting residential water shutoffs during qualifying heat periods.
The order is aimed at protecting residents and city workers during dangerous heat. Its measures include protections for vulnerable residents, with attention to seniors and people living on the streets.
Water access is part of the heat response
The suspension of residential water shutoffs applies during extreme-heat periods covered by the order. The policy is tied to those qualifying conditions; the announcement describes a heat-response measure rather than a permanent suspension of shutoffs.
The City of Detroit’s announcement defines extreme heat as temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for at least two to three days. It also describes conditions in which temperatures and heat indexes are approaching or exceeding 100 degrees.
Citywide department direction
The order directs Detroit departments to protect residents and workers when those heat conditions occur. It establishes a citywide response that connects heat protections with water access and services for people considered especially vulnerable during extreme weather.
The executive order was announced by the City of Detroit on July 1. Reporting by WDIV ClickOnDetroit likewise described the measure as halting water shutoffs during extreme heat and focusing on seniors and people living on the streets.