HARTFORD- Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced December 26 that in anticipation of temperatures over the next several days that are forecast to be bitter cold with negative wind chill factors at times, he is activating the state's Severe Cold Weather Protocol beginning immediately and remaining in effect through Tuesday, January 2. This is the first time so far this winter season that the protocol has been enacted.www.211ct.org.

"With bitter cold temperatures expected over the next couple of days, we must all take precautions and continue to protect the most vulnerable among us," Governor Malloy said. "If anyone is in need of shelter, call 2-1-1 to find the nearest available location. I also encourage local communities to consider opening warming centers or other facilities to assist those in need."

While activated, the protocol directs staff from the state's Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), the Department of Social Services (DSS), the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), and the Department of Housing (DOH) to coordinate with 2-1-1 and Connecticut's network of shelters to ensure that the state's most vulnerable populations are protected from the severe cold weather.

This includes the following actions:

*DESPP'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 2-1-1 to act as a clearinghouse to assist in finding shelter space for those who need it. Local officials, working through WebEOC, can alert 2-1-1 and the state when they open temporary shelters or warming centers.

*DSS, DOH, and DMHAS coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.

A list of shelters and warming centers that are open across Connecticut can be located by calling 2-1-1 or visiting