Problem Solvers: Harsh freezing temperatures create dangerous safety risks for those out in the elements
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)-- As the dangerous temperatures continue to roll through the region, the harsh realities of the cold weather are impacting some in our community, more than others.
"Facing the elements, it's just - it's unlike any other," Clarance Scripture said Tuesday. He says he has been on the streets of Bend for nearly a decade.
"It doesn't make it any easier. Honestly, the longer I'm out here, it feels like the more difficult it gets," he said, "I definitely hope to get into more stable housing. It's just waiting on the system at this point. "
Scripture says he's learned the dangers of winter weather after years of experiencing bitter cold and witnessing the impacts on friends.
"I know some people that have lost limbs due to frostbite," he said. "I'm very grateful that I haven't ever received frostbite. But I definitely know what it is to be cold. "
Health officials in Deschutes County tell the Problem Solvers they prepare for these types of dangerous conditions early in the season. They also offered tips this week to reduce the threat of frostbite or hypothermia.
"Being out without a coat, just being exposed to the elements when it's really, really cold, it's important to protect our skin and our body," said Program Manager Emergency Preparedness and Environmental Health Emily Horton. "So making sure that we can get inside and warm up as much as possible. If you're going to be out, wearing a hat, gloves, a warm coat, boots."
Warming shelters are open across the area for both day use and overnight. Deschutes County also has a frequently updated list of shelters.
Shelters in Bend have already had to increase their capacity ahead of the winter weather.
"We've had to go unofficially to (increase) our overflow capacity, just because it's so hard to turn people away when the temperatures drop," said Lighthouse Navigation Center Director Naomi Blair.
Scripture has winterized his camp with heavy blankets, tarps, and even a small heater because the need to stay warm for him could mean life or death.
"It's actually quite painful. It really hurts to wake up in the cold and it's so stiff. Oh my God, it hurts so bad!"
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