Yeongdeungpo-gu Implements Special Measures for Vulnerable Groups Including Homeless People Amid Heatwave

Yeongdeungpo-gu, Keeping Warmth and Sharing for Vulnerable Groups Hotter Despite the Heatwave

Special Heatwave Protection Measures for Homeless and Ssokbang Residents Until September 30... Leading the Way in Accompanying the Vulnerable

Operation of Mobile Bathing Vehicles and Heatwave Shelters, Facility Admission Guidance, Emergency Measures upon Patient Discovery, etc.

"We will carefully ensure a healthy summer without accidents through strengthened heatwave measures"

Yeongdeungpo-gu (Mayor Choi Ho-gwon) announced that it will implement special protection measures for heatwave-vulnerable groups such as the homeless and Ssokbang residents in preparation for the heatwave arriving earlier than usual this year.

Unlike previous years when heatwave warnings were issued based on the highest temperature, from this summer, warnings are issued based on the perceived temperature considering humidity. With the first heatwave advisory issued in Seoul on the 18th, special caution is required to prepare for this summer’s heatwave.

The district will expand its support and protection network tailored for the homeless and Ssokbang residents, broadening its steps to accompany the vulnerable.

First, the district operates five heatwave shelters within homeless protection facilities and Ssokbang counseling centers. These 24-hour shelters are equipped with air conditioning, shower rooms, and restrooms, allowing homeless people and Ssokbang residents exhausted by the heat to escape and rest anytime.

Additionally, a ‘mobile bathing vehicle’ providing bathing services and self-sufficiency counseling is operated for homeless people who have no place to wash.

Furthermore, street counseling and patrols for the homeless are strengthened. A total of 18 street counselors conduct intensive 24-hour patrols in areas densely populated by homeless people such as subway stations and parks to prepare for crisis situations.

Street patrol officer talks with a homeless person

An on-site emergency relief team is also operated to respond immediately to calls from homeless people in crisis. If a homeless person suspected of heatstroke is found, they are promptly connected to medical institutions, focusing on protecting the health of vulnerable homeless individuals.

The district builds networks with related organizations to prepare for emergencies. Together with homeless welfare facilities, it ensures perfect prevention of summer food poisoning and facility safety. In cooperation with the police and fire departments, intoxicated homeless people are guided to enter facilities, and those with severe alcohol addiction or mental/physical illnesses are given emergency treatment and transported to hospitals.

At the same time, the district puts effort into heatwave measures for about 400 Ssokbang residents. A special patrol team conducts patrols of Ssokbang villages more than twice daily during daytime and nighttime to ensure residents’ safety. Visiting nurses check the health of high-risk groups such as the elderly and disabled.

To prevent frequent summer food poisoning and infectious diseases, disinfection and pest control are carried out in Ssokbang alleys and public restrooms.

Choi Ho-gwon, Mayor of Yeongdeungpo-gu, said, “Heatwaves are disasters directly related to residents’ lives and safety. We will closely cooperate with Seoul City, Ssokbang counseling centers, and related organizations to carefully help homeless people and Ssokbang residents overcome the heat healthily. We will continue to warmly embrace marginalized neighbors and create a Yeongdeungpo that accompanies the vulnerable.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.