District Announces Plans for First Hypothermia Alert of the Season

In response to the season’s first hypothermia alert issued for tonight by the DC’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA), Mayor Adrian M. Fenty announced measures the District will take to protect the city’s homeless residents.

With temperatures expected to hit the low 30s this evening, the alert will go into effect after 7 p.m. tonight.

“We want to ensure our most vulnerable residents are safe and warm,” said Fenty. “We will do everything in our power to help and protect residents tonight and throughout the fall and winter months.”

Tonight, the Department of Human Services (DHS) will increase the number of emergency shelter beds by 178 throughout the city. Tonight the city’s hypothermia vans will cruise the streets ready to assist and transport homeless individuals to shelters across the District.  In addition, DHS will provide enhanced outreach to ensure anyone who wants shelter is not missed.

Individuals who are homeless and seeking assistance may call the Shelter Hotline at 1-800-535-7252. The general public may also call this number to report homeless individuals in need of assistance. Transportation will be provided continuously throughout the cold weather alert.

Hypothermia season generally begins on or after Nov. 1.  In response to the cold weather the District is ready to commence services tonight. Attached is the District’s 2008-2009 Winter Plan, which will go into effect Saturday.