Based on the National Weather Service's forecast indicating temperatures below 40°F for Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River Counties have decided to open emergency cold weather shelters this evening, January 2, 2008. Currently, a freeze warning and a wind chill warning are in effect through this evening and into tomorrow, January 3, 2008.

With temperatures dropping below 40 degrees, most areas will be under a severe weather alert, due to the wind chill and the potential for freezing temperatures. Residents should be prepared for this cold weather event and remember to practice the "5 P's" of Cold Weather Safety. These 5 P's are protecting people, pets, plants, pipes, and practicing fire safety.

For those individuals who are in need of shelter for the night, they are asked to call 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast by dialing 2-1-1 from their home or cell phone, or by calling 211's toll free number, which is (866) 882-2991. Call Center Specialists are available to provide callers with shelter information, such as shelter locations, shelter opening times, etc.

211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast provides information, referral, telephone counseling, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in a confidential, non-judgmental setting. With access to more than 4,200 health and human service programs, 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast is readily available to assist individuals of all ages, free of charge. For more information, call 2-1-1 today or visit the website at www.211treasurecoast.org.

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