The mild winter is decidedly over, and Philadelphia city officials are responding by declaring a Code Blue.
“During extremely bitter cold conditions,” the officials explained, “the City implements extraordinary measures to preserve the lives of chronically homeless individuals.”
“We have had a mild winter so far and this is the real cold snap of the season,” said Mayor Jim Kenney, “so I want to encourage citizens to stay indoors – wherever you may be.” RELATED: Jim Kenney takes office
A Code Blue emergency triggers four primary municipalactions:
In other words, agencies in Philadelphia work in concert to ensure that nobody stays on the streets during the bitter cold. The City defines these conditions as “when the temperature, wind chill and precipitation combined together result in ‘real feel’ temperatures near or below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.” RELATED: City grapples with ongoing cold snap In addition to protections for people, it’s against local law to leave a dog outside without shelter during Code Blue conditions. If citizens witness a dog outside without appropriate shelter, they’re asked to call the PennsylvaniaASPCA at 215-426-6300. Mayor Kenney added that allPhiladelphiansshould limit “exposure to the elements, keep warm, check-in on your elderly neighbors and practice safe home heating.”
Above all else, Kenney said that citizens should contact the appropriate authorities for help if they see someone in need by contacting Project HOME’s outreach line at 215-232-1984.
“During the call, citizens should provide the address, location and description of the person in need,” officials added. The Code Blue is in effect until at least 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 5.