The Montgomery County Commissioners, on the advice of the Montgomery County Office of Public Health, have extended a Code Blue Cold Weather Emergency for Montgomery County based on a review of forecasts from the National Weather Service.
The Code Blue has been extended for Montgomery County for the period beginning Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 9 a.m. and ending on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 8 a.m. During this time, either the temperature or the wind chill is expected to be below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
A Code Blue is declared in Montgomery County when winter conditions pose a threat of serious harm or death to individuals without shelter.
Residents of Montgomery County who need emergency shelter during a Code Blue can call the Your Way Home Call Center at 2-1-1 or text their zip code to 898-211.
Additionally, residents in need of assistance with housing can contact 610-278-3522 for direct, local support courtesy of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Service's Office of Community Connections.
WHAT TO DO IN CODE BLUE CONDITIONS
- Check on elderly friends and neighbors frequently to ensure that their homes are adequately heated.
- If you see someone in need of immediate emergency assistance, call or text 9-1-1.
- If you or someone you know needs help with temporary shelter from the cold weather or a longer-term housing issue, call Your Way Home at 2-1-1 or text 898-211.
PERSONAL TIPS
- Make sure your car is winterized with antifreeze, a full tank of gas, properly inflated tires, and is stocked with an emergency kit.
- Check your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Wear appropriate clothing and avoid prolonged exposure when going outdoors in winter weather.
- Limit pets' time outdoors during extreme temperatures.
- Report power outages directly to your utility company; DO NOT call 9-1-1.
For general cold weather information, please visit www.montgomerycountypa.gov/codeblue.
