Severe Cold Weather Protocol Activated

February 9 through February 10, 2017

February 9, 2017


At the direction of Governor Dannel P. Malloy, the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS), Department of Housing (DOH), Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), and the Department of Social Services (DSS), United Way 2-1-1, the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, and other partners are implementing the severe cold weather protocol to ensure adequate shelter space during the severe cold weather.

The protocol is being activated as a result of the forecasted bitter cold temperatures and strong wind gusts, resulting in negative wind chill factors, from this evening through the day tomorrow.   The current protocol will be in effect from 5 pm today, February 9, until tomorrow, Friday February 10 at 5 pm. 

Governor Malloy encourages cities and towns to consider opening warming centers or other facilities to help those in need.  In addition, we want to continue to ensure that if local shelters or other facilities used during cold weather emergencies reach their capacities, there is a system in place to find out where there is space so they can direct individuals and families accordingly.

If you receive a call from someone looking for shelter and you are not aware of any shelter space, please direct the person to 2-1-1.  DEMHS will open an Incident on WebEOC, “Severe Cold Weather February 9-10, 2017.”  If your town opens a shelter or warming center, please indicate its status on WebEOC.  Working with local shelters, 2-1-1 will act as a clearinghouse to ensure that shelter space is found for those that need it.  Please spread the word of this critical service provided by 2-1-1.

Please note: While shelters are not required to remain open for hours they would normally close during this cold weather period, any efforts that shelters and other frontline providers can make to provide shelter space for those in need during this particular cold is appreciated.

On behalf of the Governor, thank you for your efforts to keep the residents of Connecticut safe and warm, especially during these severe cold weather events.

If you have any questions about the policies for access to shelter in your area, please contact your CAN coordinator. If you have any questions about the 211 referral process, please contact Wendy Caruso, at  Wendy.Caruso@ctunitedway.org, or if immediate shelter is needed please dial 211, press option 5 and a contact specialist will assist you with finding shelter in your area.