Extreme Cold - Standard Operating Procedures
Cold Weather SOPs will be initiated at the following levels:
- Level 1 (Initiate cold weather operations) - 40 degrees or below with wind-chill factor
- Central receiving facility initiated to work with all service providers to provide shelter to the unsheltered.
- Additional temporary cots may need to be set up.
- Volunteers may need to be mobilized.
- Level 2 (Emergency Operations) - 35 degrees or below with wind-chill factor
- Central receiving facility initiated to work with all service providers to provide shelter to the unsheltered.
- Shelters will need to lower barriers within reason to shelter the unsheltered.
- Additional costs will need to be set up.
- Volunteers will need to be mobilized.
- Donations will be needed.
Community Partner Cold Weather Assistance Form
Extreme Heat - Standard Operating Procedures
Escambia County has partnered with the Waterfront Rescue Mission to provide temporary shelter during extreme heat conditions.
Policy Adaptions for Extreme Heat
To ensure the safety of individuals during periods of extreme heat, Waterfront Rescue Mission will temporarily suspend some of its normal operational guidelines. These changes are designed to accommodate those seeking shelter from dangerously high temperatures.
Definition of Extreme Heat
Extreme heat is defined as when the actual temperature or heat index is forecasted to reach 105 degrees or above.
Changes in Operating Procedures
The following changes will take place during extreme heat sheltering:
- Day Services, which normally operate from 8 am. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday and reopen at 4 p.m. for Overnight Shelter, will have extended hours. During extreme heat, the Mission will not close at 3 p.m. Anyone present will be allowed to stay inside.
- During extreme heat, individuals seeking shelter are welcome to come inside the Mission during the day and rest in designated air-conditioned areas.
- Generous supplies of drinking water will be available, in addition to the normal services provided.
- Waterfront Rescue Mission will collaborate with Escambia County Emergency Management services and other community partners to find overnight shelter for women, and individuals who cannot stay at Waterfront or choose not to. Those who prefer other accommodations will still be welcome to return to Waterfront during the day.
- If overnight shelter cannot be found for women outside of Waterfront, we will make accommodations in a secure location for them to stay at the Mission.
- Overnight capacity will not be limited to the number of beds and mats available. Once all beds and mats have been assigned, blankets and pillows will be issued, and safe, suitable sleeping locations will be designated.
