Baltimore City’s health commissioner declared the first Code Blue Extreme Cold alert of the season, with Saturday night’s wind chills expected to dip as low as 13 degrees and remain in the teens through Monday morning. The alert will be in effect from overnight Saturday, Dec. 21 through Monday morning, Dec. 23.Interim Health Commissioner Mary Beth Haller declared the alert for this weekend before the holidays. The extreme cold conditions could pose serious health risks to Baltimore City residents.Mayor Brandon Scott urged residents to stay warm inside — with the exception of those cheering on the Baltimore Ravens as they face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers.“During one the busiest shopping weekends before the holiday, we are expecting a cold front this weekend, which could deeply impact our residents that are spending extended time outdoors or traveling,” Scott said in a statement. “As a community, we are very clear: we want to ensure that everyone is prepared to stay safe and warm by taking precautions, checking on their loved ones and neighbors, and remaining indoors as much as possible – unless you are going to the Ravens game, in which case – make some noise and bundle up!”A Code Blue Extreme Cold alert is issued when forecasted temperatures, including wind chill, are expected to fall below 13 degrees, or when conditions are conditions are severe enough to create a significant risk to someone’s health. These temperatures increase the risk of cold-related injuries like frostbite and hypothermia. In extreme cases, there is the potential for death if an individual is exposed to this type of cold for too long.“As dangerously cold temperatures are expected over the weekend, it’s necessary to declare the first Code Blue Extreme Cold alert of the season to ensure the safety and well-being of our community,” Haller said. “Extreme cold can pose serious health risks, especially to populations most vulnerable to cold such as older adults, babies, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Our priority is to work with our partners to make sure everyone has access to shelter and support during colder months.”Appropriate city agencies like shelters will be activated and open for those in need, including those experiencing homelessness. During the Code Blue Extreme Cold season, agencies coordinate on a variety of support services, like distributing meals to at-risk seniors; providing home weatherization services; helping people apply for energy assistance; and providing cold weather education and outreach efforts.Throughout the Code Blue Extreme Cold season, the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services offers emergency shelter to individual adults, couples, and families as part of the City’s FY 2025 Winter Shelter & Code Purple Plan. Shelter seekers should contact the Baltimore City Shelter Hotline at 443-984-9540.They also offer the following tips for you and your pets to stay safe and healthy during the extreme cold:Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing Always wear a head covering, like a hat and/or scarf, when outdoors Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcoholic beverages Protect yourself against falls in icy or snowy conditions by walking slowly and avoiding steps or curbs with ice on them Check on those who are most vulnerable including children, the elderly and/or chronically illIf your pet is outdoors, they must be protected by a well-constructed, raised shelter that is dry and draft-free. Sufficient bedding and a door flap must be in place to maintain body heat. Fresh, unfrozen, drinkable water must be provided at all times.Other safety tips include checking your carbon monoxide detector to make sure it’s working, not using prohibited heat or power sources inside your home, like stoves or generators that might spark a fire or generate carbon monoxide poisoning, and not leaving your car running in a closed space, like a garage.Several services are available to help eligible residents with energy expenses. Call 410-396-5555 or visit the Energy Assistance Program website at this link for more information. Older residents or caregivers can call Maryland Access Point at 410-396-CARE for assistance completing and mailing energy assistance applications. The Weatherization Assistance Program helps reduce energy expenses by installing energy conservation materials and products in a resident’s home. To check if you are eligible for this free service, visit the Weatherization Assistance Program’s website at this link or call 410-396-3023. For more information about Baltimore City’s Code Blue Extreme Cold Plan, visit the Health Department’s website at this link.