Montgomery County Declares Code Blue for Jan. 13 through Jan. 18

NorthPennNow Staff

(The following information was provided by the Montgomery County Office of Communications.)

The Montgomery County Commissioners, on the advice of the Montgomery County Office of Public Health, have declared a Code Blue Cold Weather Emergency for Montgomery County based on a review of forecasts from the National Weather Service.

The Code Blue has been declared for Montgomery County for the period beginning Saturday, Jan. 13 at 8 p.m. and ending on Thursday, Jan. 18 at 9 a.m. During this time, either the temperature or the wind chill is expected to be below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

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 211 or text their zip code to 898-211.

Starting Monday, Jan. 15, residents in need of assistance with housing will also be able to contact 610-278-3522 for direct, local support courtesy of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Service's Office of Community Connections.

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 2-1-1 or text 898-211.

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.