(Cleveland) - Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner Thomas Gilson has issued a public health warning, this after confirming that the deaths of seven people since February 1 were related to cold weather. Dr. Gilson says five of the deaths happened in five days.
This is the most fatal two-week period for weather-related deaths in Cuyahoga County since 2009. In 2020, in the same period, Cuyahoga County had only one cold-related death.
Dr. Gilson points out that most of the weather-related deaths were due to homes being unheated. He says, "The county can assist with this issue and other programs related to the cold. Please check on older neighbors, especially those who may be more isolated due to the pandemic.
Here are some ways to help those who can't heat their homes properly:
- Call 211, which is a community referral line for information about social, health, and housing resources
- Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). You can call the county's Division of Senior and Adult Services at 216-420-6700, to complete the application.
- Office of Homeless Services
- HEAP Winter Crisis Program
- Winter Reconnect Order
- If you are a senior or know an older adult who needs help with heat, food, etc., call the Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services at 216-420-6700.
(Photo by Christopher Furlong, Getty Images)
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