Philadelphia dealing with heat, protests, transit
SPRING GARDEN (WTXF/AP) - Philadelphia's mayor Jim Kenney reports four heat-related deaths in the city.
Kenney spoke at a news conference at the city's Emergency Operations Center in Spring Garden.
He said he's not sure if the heat wave baking Philadelphia will lead to smaller crowds at marches and rallies before the Democratic National Convention, but he's urging people to limit time outdoors.
Also, he said demonstrations will be on hold during any thunderstorms for the safety of protesters.
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Two medic tents, two misting tents and water will be available 24 hours a day to protesters in FDR Park, near the Wells Fargo Center convention site. He strongly discouraged people from camping in parks, which is against a city edict.
Several marches and rallies were hitting the streets Sunday, including a march for clean energy and one supporting Bernie Sanders. Thousands were expected at each.
Philadelphia's police commissioner said he'll be at protests during the Democratic National Convention, helping keep the peace and showing support.
Commissioner Richard Ross said "you have to be out there" to show officers, protesters and the public you're with them.
Cleveland's police chief took a similar stance during demonstrations at last week's Republican National Convention.
Ross says his department has taken additional safety measures in light of violent events around the world, but overall plans haven't changed.
He says there's been no credible threats and no arrests or citations have been issued to protesters.
Mayor Jim Kenney says the goal is not to arrest anyone. However, Ross says there are plans in place in the case of mass arrests.
The four-day convention for Democrats to nominate Hillary Clinton for president begins Monday.
Also, due to DNC activities at the Sports Complex in South Philadelphia, SEPTA closed parking for AT&T Station customers at the Naval Hospital lot.
As an alternate, starting Monday, SEPTA will be offering free parking for customers at South Philadelphia High School, at Broad and Snyder Streets. Customers who park in this lot can access the Broad Street Line at Snyder Station.
The Naval Hospital parking lot will reopen for SEPTA customers on Monday, Aug. 1.