Montco issues Code Blue cold weather emergency Wednesday through Christmas Eve

The Montgomery County Commissioners, on the advice of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services Office of Public Health, have declared a Code Blue cold weather emergency for the period beginning Wednesday at 9 p.m. and ending on Tuesday at 9 a.m. 

During this time, either the temperature or the wind chill is expected to be at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit for two or more hours.

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 610.278.3522.

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 610.278.3522.

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.