BALTIMORE, MD (November 16, 2015)– Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen announced the start of Baltimore City’s Code Blue program for the coming winter.

Code Blue is a multi-agency effort to reduce hypothermia deaths by protecting homeless individuals, seniors and other vulnerable populations from extreme cold weather.

“We’ve enjoyed a warm fall this year, but we know that the weather can turn cold quickly,” said Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. “Together we can begin to take simple measures to ensure all Baltimore City residents are safe from the cold.”

Now, through March 2016, the Health Commissioner will declare a Code Blue alert based on the following criteria:

• Temperatures, including wind chill, are expected to be 13˚F or below. This threshold can be reached by having a temperature at or below 20˚F with 5 mph sustained winds or a temperature at or below 25˚F with 15 mph sustained winds.
• Other conditions (i.e. strong winds, forecasted precipitation for more than two hours, extended period of cold, sudden cold after a warm period) deemed by the Health Commissioner to be severe enough to present a substantial threat to the life or health of vulnerable Baltimore citizens.

During the Code Blue season, City agencies work together to:

• Increase overflow capacity at homeless shelters and encourage private homeless shelters to extend their hours and keep people indoors.
• Distribute meals to at-risk senior citizens.
• Provide home weatherization services Help individuals apply for emergency assistance.
• Provide additional cold weather education and outreach efforts, as needed.

Last winter, the state Medical Examiner’s office recorded 12 hypothermia-related deaths in Baltimore City.

“Extreme cold temperatures can permanently injure, or even kill. During period of sustain cold weather, we must be vigilant to protect against the two major health dangers during the winter months: hypothermia and carbon monoxide,” said Dr. Leana Wen, Baltimore City Health Commissioner. “Hypothermia, or low body temperature, can be just as dangerous as extreme heat, so it is important to stay indoors in heated areas. Meanwhile, it is also vital to protect against carbon monoxide, which is a silent killer. By preparing for winter weather now, every resident can make sure they stay warm and safe all winter long.”

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 at www.health.baltimorecity.gov.

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