Code Blue Alert Issued For Baltimore City

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Baltimore City's health commissioner has issued a code blue for the city overnight.

It's the first code blue alert of the season.

"While we enjoyed a warm start to winter, the weather has turned cold quickly to start 2016. I am issuing a Code Blue Declaration tonight in Baltimore and encourage residents to stay in indoors, especially those most vulnerable to cold," said Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen. "Extreme cold temperatures can permanently injure, or even kill. Hypothermia, or low body temperature, can be just as dangerous as extreme heat, so it is important to stay indoors in heated areas. Be sure to check on your elderly neighbors to ensure that they have heat and power tonight."

A code blue is issued when wind chill is expected to be 13 degrees or below or when conditions are "severe enough to present a substantial threat to the life or health of vulnerable Baltimore citizens."

City agencies will work together to distribute meals to at-risk seniors, provide home weatherization services and will work with city shelters to extend hours and expand capacity.

Twelve people died from hypothermia last winter in the city.

Cold Weather Tips for Staying Healthy:

• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing.
• Always wear a head covering, like a hat and/or scarf, when outdoors.
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Protect yourself against falls in icy or snowy conditions.
• Check on those who are children, the elderly and/or chronically ill.
• Provide appropriate shelter for domestic animals.

Other Tips For Keeping Safe in Cold Weather:

• Keep space heaters and candles away from flammable materials, such as curtains, furniture and loose clothing.
• Check your carbon monoxide detector and make sure it's working.
• Do not use prohibited heat or power sources, such as stoves or generators. They may cause fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Do not leave your car running in a closed space such as a garage.

Residents are encouraged to contact 311 if a neighbor is without heat or power so that city agencies can assist them. Energy assistance may be available to those who need it. For more information, individuals may contact one of the regional Community Action Partnership centers in Baltimore or call the Office of Home Energy Programs at 410-396-5555.

For more information about Code Blue, visit the Health Department's Website atwww.health.baltimorecity.gov.

For other cold-related inquiries and service requests, or to find a nearby homeless shelter, residents can call 311 or 211.