2-1-1 Can Connect Residents to Help During Extreme Cold

(January 2, 2018, Salisbury, MD) With the continued extreme cold and the threat of snow this week, Wicomico County Health Officer Lori Brewster reminds residents that they can find resources to help with issues caused by the cold by dialing 2-1-1. “This service will connect callers to local resources that are available to people who don’t have heat or who are homeless,” Brewster says. “2-1-1 can be called by anyone at any time,” Brewster states, “and trained specialists will provide assistance for dealing with challenges such as housing and utility shutoffs.”

Brewster provides residents some other key actions to take to stay safe during extreme cold:

• Check daily on those who live alone to ensure they have what they need to survive the cold.

• Keep the very young, the elderly, and those with medical issues such as breathing or circulation problems inside as much as possible.

• Never heat inside with ovens or grills, and maintain a 3’ boundary around space heaters.

• Check carbon monoxide sensors to make sure they’re in working order.

• When going outside, dress in layers and wear a hat and mittens; cover mouth with a scarf.

• Check local weather conditions frequently and prepare for weather events beforehand.

• Bring outside pets inside, and provide them with fresh water and extra food.

For more information about cold weather safety and local shelters, visit the Wicomico County Health Department’s website atwww.wicomicohealth.org>, our Facebook page, or follow us on Twitter @WicomicoHealth.