The high winds, low temperatures, and snow that rolled into Baltimore this week have put the city on notice: winter is here. As we all prepare for the holidays and the brief break in the school year, it is important that we prepare ourselves and our homes for winter weather-especially the cold. In light of last winter's record snowfall and long stretches of below-average temperatures, it is critical that we plan now to protect those who will need food and a warm place to go, especially those experiencing homelessness.

On Tuesday, I was joined by Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot to announce the start of the 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.

From December 15, 2010 to March 15, 2011, the Health Commissioner will declare a Code Blue day if any of the following criteria occur:

• Temperatures are expected to be below 25 degrees Fahrenheit with sustained winds of 15 mph or higher.
• Temperatures are expected to be less than or equal to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Conditions are deemed by the Health Commissioner to be severe enough to present a substantial threat to the life or health of vulnerable Baltimore citizens.

A full listing of city and private shelters is included in the 2010 Code Blue plan, available on the Health Department's Website at www.baltimorehealth.org. For other cold-related inquiries and service requests, or to find a nearby homeless shelter, residents can call 311 (410-396-3100 after hours).

Last winter, there were 75 days when the high temperature dropped below freezing. The state Medical Examiner's office recorded 8 hypothermia-related deaths in Baltimore City. Based on the historical data, populations in Baltimore City most vulnerable to hypothermia death include the elderly, individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, those who abuse alcohol, drug users, and the homeless.

When the Health Commissioner makes a Code Blue declaration, the Mayor's Office of Human Services will open the homeless shelter at 210 Guilford Avenue for extended hours. Those seeking services will be provided meals and sleeping quarters. The shelter will not turn away patrons. Homeless Services will also fund an overflow shelter to provide 100 additional beds for residents seeking meals and sleeping quarters.

During these colder months, it is imperative that residents look out for vulnerable people in their own neighborhoods. I urge you to check on your elderly or disabled neighbors. If they are without heat for any reason, call 3-1-1.

Residents lacking heat are reminded of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning from using generators in enclosed spaces and burns caused by alternate heating sources. Energy assistance may be available to those who need it. For more information on energy assistance, call 3-1-1 or contact the Office of Home Energy at 410-396-5555.

Together we can take simple measures to ensure all Baltimore City residents are safe from the cold.