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Mayor Simmons Urges Residents to Take Precautions Ahead of Extreme Cold Weather

Post Date:12/22/2022 5:33 PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Stamford

 

Thursday, December 22, 2022

 

Contact:

Lauren Meyer

203-977-5115

lmeyer@stamfordct.gov

 

MAYOR SIMMONS URGES RESIDENTS TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS AHEAD OF EXTREME COLD WEATHER  

Public safety officials warn of potential flash freezing hazard

Stamford, CT – Colder than normal temperatures and strong winds are projected Friday, December 23 through Sunday, December 25, with temperatures falling into the teens and lower 20’s. Residents are urged to take steps to keep warm during times of frigid temperatures and to be aware of potential icy conditions throughout the weekend.

On Tuesday, Governor Ned Lamont activated the state’s severe cold weather protocol beginning at 6:00 p.m., on Friday, December 23 and remaining in effect through 12:00 p.m., on Monday, December 26.

Moderate rainfall of 2-3 inches is expected Friday morning, with cold air moving into the state Friday afternoon and lows Friday night reaching 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit and wind chills nearing zero on Friday and Saturday night. Temperatures are forecast to remain below freezing until next Tuesday. 

“The City of Stamford is doing all we can to ensure that our most vulnerable residents have a place to stay warm and safe during this extreme cold front,” said Mayor Caroline Simmons. “We are partnering with community agencies to provide warming centers for residents, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of these resources, if needed. Our Operations Department is also preparing to treat the roads for any icy conditions that may develop over the next few days.” 

“I join the Mayor in urging everyone to take precautions and stay out of the cold weather during these extreme conditions,” said Lou DeRubeis, Director of Public Safety, Health, and Welfare. “The current weather forecast anticipates wet conditions with a rapid temperature drop during a brief timeframe. This is a public safety concern to pedestrians and motor vehicles throughout our City because these conditions can lead to flash freezing conditions, so we urge residents to be careful, if you need to drive.” 

Due to the forecast of heavy rain, high winds, and rapidly falling temperatures over the next 18-24 hours, all Stamford Public Schools will be closed on Friday, December 23 to ensure the safety of students and staff.  

Warming centers are open daily and residents are reminded to stay indoors as much as possible, dress warmly if you do need to go outside, and check on your family and neighbors.

Warming centers are open for the times and locations listed on the City’s website, and those in need of warming are encouraged to call 2-1-1.

Cold Weather Safety Tips

The Stamford Department of Health reminds all citizens of the following tips to stay safe during extreme cold:

  • Dress warmly, and in layers, and cover your skin, even if you are just making a short trip. In extreme cold, skin exposed to the cold air can get frostbite in just a few minutes. If you must go outside, you should wear:
    • Hat
    • Scarf or knit face mask to cover your face and mouth
    • Sleeves that are snug at the wrist
    • Mittens (they are warmer than gloves)
    • Water-resistant coat and boots
  • The temperature inside your home should be set according to your own activity level, health, and medications. What is an acceptable, fuel-saving temperature for an active family may not be safe for an older person who has difficulty moving or takes certain medications.
  • The elderly are especially susceptible to extremely cold temperatures. Check on elderly friends, family, or neighbors frequently.
  • Remove clothing if it gets damp or wet. Wet clothing can make you more prone to hypothermia.
  • Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia and seek medical assistance if you have these signs:
    • °Symptoms of frostbite can include loss of feeling and loss of color and usually happens on the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes.
    • °Symptoms of hypothermia in adults can include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, drowsiness, or slurred speech.
    • °In infants, symptoms of hypothermia can include bright red, cold skin, and low energy.
  • Make sure your car is ready for the extreme weather conditions. Get your vehicle winterized and make sure tires are in good condition. Check your car emergency kit and replace any items that are broken or are unsafe to use.
  • Ensure your pets are not outside for an extended period of time. If you notice an animal outside for an extended period, contact its owner or the animal control officer.

Stay Informed by Visiting:

  • www.StamfordCT.gov
  • WSHU Fairfield County Public Radio - 91.1 FM
  • WGCH Radio - 1490 AM
  • WFOX The Fox Radio - 95.9 FM
  • News 12 Connecticut, Cablevision Channel 12

To Prepare for and to Respond to Severe Weather Visit: 

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