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Health Commissioner Declares Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert For this Weekend through Tuesday
Saturday Jan 4th, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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PRESS RELEASE
Health Commissioner Declares Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert For this Weekend through Tuesday
BALTIMORE, MD (Friday, January 3, 2025) – Interim Health Commissioner Mary Beth Haller has issued a Code Blue Extreme Alert beginning Saturday, January 4 extending through Tuesday, January 7. This alert has been issued due to forecasted wind chills expected to dip into the teens overnight Saturday and remain in there through Tuesday. These extreme cold conditions, mixed with wintry weather, could pose signigicant health risk to residents within the City of Baltimore.
A Code Blue Extreme Cold alert is declared when forecasted temperatures – including wind chill – are expected to fall below 13 degrees, or when conditions are severe enough to create a significant risk to someone’s health. The alert means there’s an increased risk of cold-related injuries, including frostbite and hypothermia, and in extreme cases, the potential for fatalities among individuals exposed to these temperatures for an extended period.
“The safety and well-being of our residents remain paramount, and we encourage everyone to take precautions, stay warm, and look out for one another during this Code Blue Extreme Cold alert,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “With the frigid temperatures and the potential for severe winter weather expected this weekend, we are activating additional resources for those most vulnerable to the cold and to support those in need. Please take precautions, and check on your neighbors in need.”
During a Code Blue Extreme Cold alert, City agencies activate services that provide shelter and assistance for those in need, including those experiencing homelessness. During the Code Blue Extreme Cold season, agencies work together to:
- Distribute meals to at-risk older adults
- Provide home weatherization services
- Help individuals apply for energy assistance
- Provide additional cold weather education and outreach efforts
Throughout the Code Blue Extreme Cold season, the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services offers emergency shelter to individual adults, couples, and families as part of the City’s FY 2025 Winter Shelter & Code Purple Plan. Shelter seekers should contact the Baltimore City Shelter Hotline at 443-984-9540.
“Extreme cold can be life-threatening, especially for vulnerable populations such as older adults, young children, and individuals experiencing homelessness,” said Interim Health Commissioner Mary Beth Haller. " We urge all residents to take precautions to remain warm and as safe as possible during this period."
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 by walking slowly and avoiding steps or curbs with ice on them.
- Check on those who are most vulnerable, including infants and children, older adults and/or chronically ill.
- If your pet is outdoors, they must be protected by a well-constructed, raised shelter that is dry and draft-free. Sufficient bedding and a door flap must be in place to maintain body heat. Fresh, unfrozen, drinkable water must be provided at all times.
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 inside your home, such as stoves or generators. They may cause fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Do not leave your car running in a closed space like a garage.
During the winter season, several services are available to eligible residents to assist with energy expenses. Residents can call 410-396-5555 or visit the Energy Assistance Program website for more information on energy assistance. Older residents or caregivers can call Maryland Access Point at 410-396-CARE for assistance completing and mailing energy assistance applications.
The Weatherization Assistance Program helps reduce energy expenses by installing energy conservation materials and products in a resident’s home. To check your eligibility for this free service, visit the Weatherization Assistance Program’s website or call 410-396-3023.
The Weatherization Assistance Program helps reduce energy expenses by installing energy conservation materials and products in a resident’s home. To check your eligibility for this free service, visit the Weatherization Assistance Program’s website or call 410-396-3023.
The Maryland Department of Health Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has reported 3 cold-related deaths in Baltimore City so far this Code Blue Extreme Cold season.
For more information about Baltimore City’s Code Blue Extreme Cold Plan, visit the Health Department’s website.
For other cold-related inquiries and service requests, or to find a nearby homeless shelter, residents can call 311 or 211.
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