Hypothermia program underway

Fairfax County’s Hypothermia Prevention Program, now underway, ensures that people experiencing homelessness have a warm place to sleep during the winter. The program operates from Dec. 1 through March 31.

If you see someone who is unsheltered and appears to be at risk of hypothermia, call the non-emergency public safety phone number, 703-691-2131, so the police can conduct a wellness check. Call 911 if you see someone in dire need of help.

Accommodations are provided within existing shelters that serve single adults – such as Bailey’s Shelter and Supportive Housing on Seminary Road in Bailey’s Crossroads – and auxiliary locations administered in partnership with nonprofit organizations and houses of worship.

The program provides food, clothing, and supportive services to guests. It typically helps about 1,000 people every year. Last year, the program served about 215 guests a night.

The Bailey’s Shelter relies on donations from the public to help ensure the hypothermia program runs smoothly. The most needed items are new and gently used cold-weather clothing, bath towels, and washcloths. Volunteer opportunities are also available. Contact the shelter at 703-820-7621 for more information.

FACETS, a nonprofit that serves the county’s neediest residents, also provides shelter and other services during the coldest months to individuals experiencing homelessness at 29 houses of worship.

In addition to a warm place to sleep, FACETS’ faith partners also provide meals for guests with different partners rotating week to week. The first location is Annandale United Methodist Church.

Hypothermia is caused by prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures when the body begins to lose heat faster than it is produced.

An individual with mild hypothermia (when the body’s core temperature drops to 94 to 84 degrees) may be conscious, but will be lethargic, apathetic, cool, and pale. An individual with severe hypothermia (84 degrees) will likely be unconscious with cold skin and rigid muscles.

These are some of the warning signs of hypothermia: shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness.