Code Blue in effect in Philadelphia as temperatures dip well below freezing

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- With the temperature expected to dip well below freezing, a Code Blue was placed in effect for the area Tuesday night.

Officials said the weather conditions will prove dangerous for the homeless, who are sleeping out on the streets.

"These are dangerous conditions," said Liz Hersh, director of the Office of Homeless. "You really don't want anybody outside sleeping in this weather, it's too cold and we don't want anybody to die of exposure."

Under a Code Blue, the city has made several hundred extra beds available and additional outreach workers to try to bring people in out of the cold.

"And then if somebody really doesn't look like they can care for themselves, then we may actually initiate an involuntary hospitalization," said Hersh.

This sudden drop in temperature caught some people by surprise.

"I'm really not ready for the cold," said Gorpu Miller. "We were spoiled this year."

Another thing to be concerned with, the extreme cold temperatures can wreak havoc on car batteries.

Representatives from AAA said aside from the battery, you should also check on your car's tires.

"Check your tire pressure as well," said Andrew Valle, AAA technician. "Usually you lose more air when it's colder outside."

If you are worried about someone in the city sleeping out in the cold, you can call the city's outreach hotline at 215-232-1984.

Also, don't get caught with a $500 fine - remember to bring your pets in out of the cold.

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