Charlotte, N.C. (Dec. 21, 2022) – In response to extreme weather forecasted through at least Monday, Dec. 26, activation of extreme weather protocols will begin on Friday, Dec. 23, which include expanded hours of operation and additional capacity at area homeless shelters. Mecklenburg County, the City of Charlotte, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management Office (CMEMO), Roof Above and the Salvation Army Center of Hope are working together to support the needs of people experiencing homelessness during this extreme weather event.
Roof Above's Day Services Center will be remain open until 4 p.m. daily on Friday, Dec. 23, Saturday, Dec. 24 and Sunday, Dec. 25. These extended hours include access to restrooms, handwashing stations, and outside radiated heaters.
The following provides an update on expanded shelter capacity and access
during this extreme weather event. Mecklenburg County and the shelters will be closely monitoring shelter utilization.
On Thursday, Dec. 22, street outreach will visit homeless encampments to encourage anyone living unsheltered to visit a shelter and to provide information on how to access shelter. Individuals declining shelter will be provided blankets and/or sleeping bags, if needed.
For Men:
Roof Above provides shelter for men and expanded capacity at their shelter locations. To access shelter, men may come on site to Roof Above at 1210 N. Tryon starting at 4 p.m.
For Women and Families:
Salvation Army provides shelter for women and families and expanded capacity at their shelter location. To access shelter, women and families may call 2-1-1 or by going to the shelter at 534 Spratt Street between 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Transportation:
Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) buses will transport individuals to these shelter locations free of charge to Spratt St. and N. Tryon St. during the day. Route information is below. Riders must simply identify a designated shelter location to the driver. This is only for routes 11, 21, 22 and 26.
Spratt St.
Route 21, 22, 26
Weekday and Saturday schedules are the same.
Winter Storm Preparedness Tips
Before Winter Weather:
Ensure you have enough food, water, medications and other essentials for your family and pets for at least 72 hours.
Have emergency supplies in your home. This includes flashlights, batteries, battery operated radio, medical supplies, nonperishable foods and a fully charged cell phone.
Gather supplies before winter weather begins - travel may be difficult during and immediately following winter weather.
For a list of suggested emergency supplies, visit
www.ready.gov/kit.
Talk with your family about where to go and how to contact each other if you lose power.
Bring outdoor pets inside. If unable to bring pets inside, ensure they have appropriate shelter from the weather and access to fresh water that is not frozen.
Straw is the best bedding to keep outdoor pets dry and warm – free straw can be picked up at Animal Care and Control at 8315 Byrum Drive, Charlotte, NC 28217 in the self-serve trailer located in the front parking lot.
During Winter Weather:
Home Safety
Do
NOT use a generator indoors. Keep generators at least 20 feet away from your home and away from vents, windows and doors.
Never use a charcoal grill or camping stove indoors.
Don't use alternative heating methods such as space heaters in an unattended room or while you're sleeping.
If clearing debris, do not use power tools unless you are fully trained on proper safety procedures.
On the Road
Only drive during a winter storm if it is necessary. It is important to keep roads clear for first responders and essential workers.
Keep an emergency kit and blankets in your car.
Slow down and leave space between you and other vehicles.
If you start to slide, do
NOT panic.
Call 9-1-1 for emergencies and call 3-1-1 to report downed trees and power lines.
CATS will operate normal weekend service on bus, light rail, and streetcar. Any weather-related service impacts will be announced as needed. Riders can call CATS Customer Service at 704.336.7433 (RIDE) for the most up-to-date information.
Stay Informed:
Additional Information:
For more information on how to prepare and stay safe during a winter storm visit
www.ready.gov/winter-weather.
Winter Weather Preparation Tips for Pets:
Bring outdoor pets inside. If unable to bring pets inside, ensure they have appropriate shelter from the weather and access to fresh water that is not frozen.
Straw is the best bedding to keep outdoor pets dry and warm – free straw can be picked up at Animal Care & Control at 8315 Byrum Drive – Charlotte, NC 28217 – self serve in trailer located in the front parking lot.
After walking pets, make sure to clean their paws with warm water and mild soap to clean off any ice melt solution. When purchasing ice melt, make sure to buy a pet friendly version.
Consult with your veterinarian on the best care for your animals. Senior animals or animals with medical conditions may not tolerate cold weather very well. Keep their walks short. Consider coats or sweaters for pets with short fur.
Put a sheet of plastic, old shower curtain or old rugs down in your yard, after any precipitation ends, pick it up and you have a grass area for picky pets to go to the bathroom in grass.
If you see an animal without out proper shelter, please call 311 to ask for an animal welfare check. CMPD Animal Care & Control has more tips avabile in its
winter weather safety video.