HARTFORD — Governor Ned Lamont announced Wednesday, December 18, that as bitter cold temperatures and wind chills are anticipated to impact the state over the next several days, he would be activating the state’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol beginning at 6 pm that evening, and lasting through 9 am on Saturday, December 21. This is the first time this season that the protocol has been enacted.

The same afternoon, Town of Newtown officials issued a press release reminding residents that there are multiple locations in town where they can find relief from cold temperatures.

The governor's protocol directs staff from the relevant state agencies to coordinate with United Way 211 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe conditions. A listing of available shelters throughout Connecticut can be located by calling 211 or visiting 211ct.org.

“Bitter cold temperatures and wind chills are expected to impact our state over the next few days,” Gov Lamont said. “We must ensure that services are available to protect the most vulnerable populations during these periods of cold weather. If you or someone you know is in need of a shelter or warming center, please call 211.”

While activated, the protocol includes the following actions:

*The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security activates its WebEOC communications network, an internet-based system that enables local, regional, and state emergency management officials and first responders to share up-to-date information about a variety of situations and conditions.

The system is used to monitor capacity at shelters across the state, enabling 211 to act as a clearinghouse to assist in finding shelter space for those who need it. Local officials, working through WebEOC, can alert 211 and the State when they open temporary shelters or warming centers.

*The Department of Social Services, Department of Housing, and Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services coordinate with 211 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.

Local Resources

On Wednesday afternoon, First Selectman Dan Rosenthal and the Emergency Management Office also urged residents to be prepared for severe cold weather. Residents were encouraged to make appropriate preparations to ensure personal safety and readiness, and to also take action to protect their pets.

"Connecticut is forecast to experience bitter cold overnight wind chill temperatures Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights," the group stated. "We ask that you please check on any elderly or frail neighbors to be certain they are doing OK in this weather."

Residents are welcome at the following locations to seek relief from the cold:

Within Fairfield Hills: Newtown Community Center, 8 Simpson Street, Monday through Friday, 6 am-9 pm; and weekends, 7 am-7 pm (call 203-270-4349); Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street, Mondays through Thursdays, 8 am-8 pm, and Fridays, 8 am-5 pm (Office of the First Selectman, 203-270-4201; Emergency Management/Office of the Fire Marshal, 203-270-4370; Office of the Health District, 203-270-4291); and Newtown Senior Center, also 8 Simpson Street, open weekdays, 9 am-4 pm (203-270-4310).

Additional warming locations include Cyrenius H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street, open Monday through Thursday, 9:30 am-8 pm; Friday, 11 am-5 pm; and Saturday, 9:30 am-5 pm (call 203-426-4533 or visit chboothlibrary.org); and Edmond Town Hall Theatre, 45 Main Street, building is open 8 am-11 pm, movie tickets are $3 (visit NewtownBee.com/calendar or call 203-426-2475 for show listings and times.

Important numbers and contact information:

*If there is a life safety emergency, call 911.

*For a power outage, contact Eversource at 800-286-2000 or eversource.com.

*CodeRED, register under Emergency Management on the Public Safety page on the Town of Newtown’s website (newtown-ct.gov/emergency-management) or call 203-270-4370 for assistance;

*Smart 911, which can also be accessed through the Emergency Management on the Public Safety page on the Town of Newtown’s website (newtown-ct.gov/emergency-management);

Check News on the Town website (newtown-ct.gov), where residents are also encouraged to register to receive news from Town officials.