HARTFORD - Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has activated the state's cold-weather shelter plan in advance of a cold snap that is expected to bring sub-zero temperatures to Connecticut.
Malloy says the state's Severe Cold Weather Protocol will remain in effect from 4 p.m. Thursday through 10 a.m. on Monday.
Under the plan, state officials will coordinate with Connecticut's network of shelters in an attempt to match the homeless with available beds.
An Internet-based system will allow emergency management officials and first responders to share information and monitor capacity at shelters across the state.
The state's 2-1-1 system will coordinate placements and community-based providers will provide transportation for the homeless.
Current forecasts for this weekend projecting a low of -5 to -10 degrees F. Sustained winds of 15 MPH, with gusts to 30-35 MPH, are expected. This could create a wind chill of -25 to -35 at times.
The state’s warming centers are open across the state to help those who need shelter. Anyone can call to find a shelter close by.
The best advice is not to go outside if you don’t have to.
Other precautions to take:
- Stay indoors if possible
- If you must go outside, wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Wear a hat and change wet clothes frequently to prevent loss of body heat.
- Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion
- If symptoms of hypothermia are detected, get the victim to a warm location, remove wet clothing, warm the center of the body first and give warm, non-alcoholic beverages if the victim is conscious. Get medical help as soon as possible
