With the arrival of frigid weather, Chester County has put its Code Blue policy in effect, according to a county press release.
Code Blue is implemented when temperatures dip below 35 degrees, putting some residents at risk for inadequate shelter, hot meals, and medical assistance. Information on the county's Code Blue alert, which includes a list of warming stations, can be found here.
During this period of extreme cold, the Chester County Department of Emergency Services (CCDES) is reminding residents to take precautions to prevent serious health and safety concerns. Preparing for exposure to colder temperatures can mean the difference between staying healthy and risking serious injury or even death, said a CCDES press release.
“Severe cold and winter weather is the number one cause of many health related injuries like frostbite, hypothermia, and falling or slipping on slippery or icy sidewalks and paths,” Robert J. Kagel, the CCDES director, said in the release. “Cold weather can also put an extra strain on the heart. People should make sure to dress warm, keep outdoor trips brief, and take breaks when shoveling or cleaning off cars.”
When exposed to cold temperatures, the human body loses heat faster than it generates it. Prolonged exposure to cold eventually uses up the body’s stored energy and can result in a serious condition called hypothermia. Characterized by abnormally low body temperature, hypothermia is most likely to occur at very cold temperatures, but can occur even at temperatures above 40° F if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat or submersion in cold water, the release said.
Frostbite is another injury to the body caused by freezing, and results in a loss of feeling and color in affected areas. It most often affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers or toes. Frostbite can permanently damage the body, and in severe cases can lead to amputation. The risk of frostbite is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and among people who are not dressed properly for extremely cold temperatures.
Those who have heart disease or high blood pressure should consult with their doctor for advice about performing other hard work in the cold, like shoveling snow. Otherwise, if you have to do active outdoor chores: dress warmly and work slowly. The body already is working hard just to stay warm and it is possible to get overheated as well, the release said.
Anyone without proper shelter should contact ConnectPoints, a county assessment program that provides emergency shelter and resources to those facing homelessness and housing insecurity. It can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-935-3181.
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