Due to the extreme cold weather forecasted, the health department has partnered with Asbury United Methodist Church, American Red Cross and the Eastern Panhandle Medical Reserve Corps to open a warming center. This center will be open for those with inadequate shelter that cannot provide protection from the extreme cold.

*Days and Hours of Operation:

Monday, January 6, 2014, 4p.m and will stay open until Wednesday, January 8, 2014, 8a.m

Location of site: Asbury United Methodist Church

110 W North St, Charles Town, WV 25414

Special news release from Dr. David Didden, Health Officer:

With the combination of cold air and high winds due in our area, please be mindful of the increased chances of frostbite and hypothermia under these conditions. At wind chills of 20 to 30 below, frostbite can occur in 30 minutes or less if skin is not protected. With prolonged exposure to cold, our bodies may not have the energy to maintain adequate heat. This condition is known as hypothermia and is extremely dangerous, particularly to infants and the elderly. Take a few simple but vital precautions to avoid health problems caused by the extreme cold: dress warmly and stay dry by wearing layered winter clothes, especially hats, scarves, gloves, and a water-resistant coat to minimize exposure to wind and moisture; avoid unnecessary time outdoors for infants and seniors; if your home does not have enough heating, use the emergency warming center; and if you are at increased risk for heart disease be sure to check with your doctor about avoiding extra stress on your heart.

*For the most up to date information on operational hours and status, please call the Jefferson County Health Department (304) 728-8416 or refer to our Facebook page or website, www.jchealthdept.org