2022 Cold Weather Action Plan

Our cold weather protocol has been in place since October, in advance of the cold weather months.
We take numerous precautions during the cold-weather season to keep everyone living and working here safe and warm.
The department provides long-sleeve uniforms and sweatshirts, at the beginning of the fall season.
Temperatures are monitored regularly, and remedial action is taken in housing areas if the temperature is below 68° F.
- Such actions include the provision of additional blankets and warm drinks and, if the issue cannot be abated within a reasonable amount of time, movement to another area within the facility. Corrective action is also taken in all support areas.
In case of brownout or blackout conditions, emergency backup generators are provided to all critical areas of each facility.
Correctional Health Services (CHS) clinics are available 24/7 to evaluate patients who may be experiencing cold weather-related symptoms.
In addition to voicing their concerns to their Housing Area Officer, a supervisor, or CHS staff, individuals in our custody can also file a grievance form internally or call 311 using the housing area phones to discuss conditions in their housing area free of charge. These complaints are reviewed and processed by the Office of Constituent and Grievance services (OCGS).
CHS is offering the flu and COVID-19 vaccines to everyone in its care. Patients can request the flu or COVID-19 vaccines and schedule a clinic appointment by calling the Health Triage Line. They can speak directly with a nurse or leave a message.