East Hartford Severe Cold Weather Advisory

East Hartford, CT — Governor Ned Lamont has issued a severe cold weather protocol for the State of Connecticut effective 3 PM Wednesday, January 17 through noon on Monday, January 22^nd. Forecasts show extreme cold temperatures and very low wind chill values for this weekend.

Residents are asked to take precautionary measures against this bitter cold. Please, be reminded that elderly, infants and children are particularly vulnerable during periods of extreme cold weather. Please wear layers, limit exposure to the outdoors and look for the warning signs of hypothermia.

If you need a place to warm up, the following town facilities are open as specified below. Please note, these facilities will not be offering special services, but residents are welcome to come in and warm up during operational hours.

Residents should recognize the signs of hypothermia, which can be fast and can come at a moment’s notice as the temperature decreases and exposure to the cold increases. Hypothermia is defined as a core body temperature below 95F and includes symptoms such as shivering, slow, shallow breathing, confusion and memory loss, drowsiness or exhaustion, slurred or mumbled speech, loss of coordination, fumbling hands, stumbling steps, a slow, weak pulse and in severe hypothermia, a person may be unconscious without obvious signs of breathing or a pulse. If you notice any or all of these signs, call 911 immediately.

During the stretch of extremely cold weather, residents are asked to consider the following actions:

• Limit time outdoors, as frostbite can occur within as little as 10 minutes
• Dress in several warm layers and cover all exposed skin
• Check and protect water pipes, as prolonged cold will freeze the pipes
• Don't forget about pets and bring them inside

Please refer to the East Hartford Health Department webpage for additional Winter Weather Preparation tips.

Check on neighbors, friends, family and elderly. Stay warm.

Individuals in need of a shelter should call 2-1-1.