Douglas County has a response for addressing shelter needs that may occur due to the forthcoming arctic freeze.

If you need help with shelter, the County has these resources:

- Stranded Motorists: call 303-660-7500 for the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office emergency dispatch

- Residents who lose power or have a water main break and must leave their homes: call 303-660-7500 for the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office emergency dispatch

- For those who are unsheltered in Douglas County: contact the Homeless Engagement, Assistance and Resource Team (HEART)at 303-660-7301. After 5 p.m., call the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office at 303-660-7500 for emergency dispatch

Please read this Public Health Advisory from the Douglas County Health Department.

To protect your pets:

- Limit your pet’s time and exposure outdoors during the duration of this weather event

To protect your home:

- Keep your house heated to a minimum of 65 degrees
- Know the location of your main water shutoff and know how to operate it
- Change your furnace filter to ensure proper airflow and operation of the furnace
- Keep your overhead garage door closed
- Plumbing fixtures like sinks on exterior walls can be opened just enough to drip to prevent freezing
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to reach the pipes
- Make sure exterior hoses are disconnected
- Seal holes and cracks around the exterior of your home
- Keep drapes and blinds closed where practical