In response to anticipated cold temperatures this weekend, the Mayor of Boston, Michelle Wu, issued a cold weather advisory for the city. Forecasted wind chills as low as zero degrees pose a risk for hypothermia and frostbite, especially affecting vulnerable populations such as the homeless, elderly, and young children.
Residents are urged to take precautions, check on vulnerable individuals, and report concerns to 911.
According to the city government, anticipated temperatures do not meet the criteria for declaring a weather emergency. However, if necessary, Boston Centers for Youth & Families community centers, the Central Library in Copley Square, and shelters such as Southampton Street Shelter and Woods Mullen Shelter will offer refuge.
Key Safety Tips:
Dress for the Weather:
- Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.
- Choose outer garments that are tightly woven and water-repellent.
- Use mittens over gloves for effective hand layering.
- Always wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
- Dress children warmly and set reasonable time limits on outdoor play.
- Restrict infants’ outdoor exposure when it is colder than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Frostbite Warning Signs:
- Look for loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities.
- If symptoms are detected, seek medical help immediately.
Hypothermia Warning Signs:
- Watch for uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion.
- If symptoms are observed, contact a healthcare provider immediately; severe symptoms warrant a call to 911.
Heating Guidelines for Property Owners and Tenants:
- As per the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code, the heating season runs from September 15 to June 15.
- Property owners must maintain a minimum temperature of 68 degrees (7 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.) and 64 degrees (11:01 p.m. to 6:59 a.m.) in habitable spaces.
- Property owners should keep a list of licensed contractors in emergencies.
- Tenants with heating issues should check the thermostat, report problems, and call 311 if the landlord is unresponsive.
Heating Safety:
- Avoid using charcoal or gas grills, kitchen stoves, or non-heater products to heat homes.
- Have heating systems cleaned and checked annually.
- Install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on every level.
- Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from combustibles and turn them off when not in use or leaving the room.
Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes:
- Locate and learn how to use the main water shut-off valve.
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas using inexpensive materials.
- Circulate warm air around pipes by keeping cabinet doors open.
- Allow a trickle of tap water during extreme cold to prevent freezing.
- Protect the water meter from drafts and ensure tight closure of basement doors and windows.
- If pipes freeze, thaw them slowly with a hair dryer (no open flame). Call BWSC 24-hour Emergency Assistance Line at 617-989-7000 if water is lost in all taps.
Emergency Home Repair Resources:
- Income-eligible homeowners and residents over 60 can receive assistance with winter emergencies and repairs by calling the Mayor’s hotline at 311 or the Boston Home Center at 617-635-HOME (4663).
- The Mayor’s Seniors Save program assists eligible Bostonians over 60 with replacing old heating systems; call 311 or the Boston Home Center for details.
