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Flager County opens shelter for the cold weather conditions

Published  January 3, 2018 1:41pm EST
News
FOX 35 Orlando
Flagler County generic article

BUNNELL, Fla. (FOX 35 WOFL) - Flagler County's Office of Emergency Management is monitoring the current cold weather conditions of the area.

They announced today the Sheltering Tree located 205 N. Pine Street in Bunnell (call 386-437-3258 ext. 105 to contact them) will be open to accommodate those without appropriate housing.

“We will serve a hot meal at 6 p.m.,” said the Sheltering Tree’s Vicky Letellier. “We provide a cot, hot breakfast in the morning, and a change of clothes for those who want it. We do not have a shower.”

Officials say for safety reasons, once guests check in for the night at the Sheltering Tree, they are not permitted to leave until the morning.

“We do everything we can to get people out of this horrible weather, but they cannot come and go,” Letellier said. “Anyone with questions should call. We are very busy today, so leave a message if we don’t answer and we’ll return the call.”

Officials are also urging residents to practice the five P's of cold weather preparation.

The Five P's are:

  • PROTECT PEOPLE: Remember to dress in layers and wear a hat and gloves. It is important to try to stay out of the wind and to stay dry..
  • PROTECT PETS: Be sure to bring outdoor pets inside, or give them a warm shelter to stay for the duration of the cold weather. 
  • PROTECT PLANTS: Cover cold sensitive plants to protect them from the dangerous temperatures. 
  • PROTECT PIPES: Cover pipes and allow outdoor faucets to slowly drip to prevent from freezing and breaking. 
  • PRACTICE FIRE SAFETY: Use safe heating sources indoors. Do not use fuel-burning devices such as grills; they release carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas. Also, make sure to use space heaters according to their instructions and be attentive to open flames. 

“We are asking our residents and visitors to protect their life and property during this cold weather event,” said Acting Emergency Management Chief Sally Sherman. “Children and the elderly are the most sensitive to the effects of the cold temperatures and strong winds.”