Austin Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) is responding to a surge in cold exposure calls as Central Texas deals with frigid temperatures. Two deaths are suspected to be related to hypothermia. While the city has improved its response to winter weather, officials urge residents to remain cautious and take necessary precautions to stay warm.
On Monday, Austin Travis County EMS ( ATCEMS ) responded to 11 calls related to cold exposure . This number was mirrored in the 12 hours between midnight and noon on Tuesday. Tragically, two of these calls resulted in deaths suspected to be from hypothermia. While Central Texas residents enjoyed the snow that fell overnight and Tuesday morning, the weather also kept first responders busy. ATCEMS reported their top calls during this period involved car crashes and cold exposure .
Even with the sun shining, ATCEMS Captain Christa Stedman emphasizes that prolonged exposure to the elements in these conditions can be dangerous. 'While it's safer on the roadways, that doesn't necessarily mean that it's safe,' Stedman said. 'We are still going to have bitterly cold temperatures.' Stedman continued, 'Hypothermia can set in in a matter of minutes, so the best thing you can do is prepare yourself really well.' She notes that on Monday, ATCEMS responded to 11 cold exposure calls. They then responded to the same number of calls in the twelve hours between midnight and noon on Tuesday. 'It's definitely concerning,' Stedman said. 'We want everyone to get through this winter weather event safe and healthy and warm. It says to us, like, what else can we be doing?' Despite the challenges, Stedman acknowledges that the city of Austin has significantly improved its response to winter weather, particularly in assisting those experiencing homelessness find warmth and shelter. 'The city of Austin has learned from past experiences and has done a whole lot of preparation,' Stedman said. This time, the city's overnight emergency shelters remained open throughout the morning, unlike in previous years. Community centers and libraries also served as warming centers during the day. 'They have done in-person outreach,' Stedman said. 'They have different networks of partner organizations that they get that information to folks through.' Austin's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management confirmed that 547 people and six pets were provided with emergency shelter on Monday night. Shelters will also be open Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, and again Wednesday night into Thursday. Stedman stresses that this type of cold isn't just dangerous for those experiencing homelessness. Austinites should continue to stay indoors if possible and wear multiple warm layers if they must go outside. 'Anybody is susceptible to hypothermia, especially the very young, the very old, and the medically fragile,' Stedman said. 'So it's really important to protect yourself if you do have to go out into the elements.
COLD EXPOSURE HYPOTHERMIA WINTER WEATHER AUSTIN TEXAS ATCEMS EMERGENCY SHELTER
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Texas Braces for Potential Winter Weather, Cold TemperaturesA strong cold front is expected to bring freezing temperatures and potential for winter precipitation to North and Central Texas this week.
Read more »
US Braces for Double Whammy of Winter WeatherA potent combination of snow, ice, and frigid temperatures is set to lash the eastern US, prompting warnings of potential disasters.
Read more »
Texas Braces for Winter WeatherA rain-snow mix is expected to hit North Texas, with potential for 1 to 4 inches of snow accumulation. ERCOT issues a winter weather watch due to potential strain on the state’s power grid.
Read more »
Chicago Braces for Winter Weather ImpactsLake-effect snow, freezing drizzle, and mist are causing hazardous travel conditions in the Chicago area.
Read more »
Denver Area Braces for Winter Storm, Shelters Open for Cold WeatherDenver and surrounding areas are preparing for a significant winter storm bringing up to 8 inches of snow and dangerously low temperatures. To combat the cold, various shelters are opening their doors to provide warm refuge for those in need.
Read more »
Texas Braces for Winter Weather, Power Outages Prompt PreparationThousands of CoServ Electric customers in Collin County experienced power outages due to winter weather. The City of Frisco reported icy road conditions following an irrigation pipe burst. ERCOT reported a total of 283 customers affected in Tarrant County. Residents are urged to take precautions and be prepared for potential outages.
Read more »