NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — When the weather gets this dangerously cold, you may see these volunteers patrolling through the city. The Nashville Office of Emergency Management’s Emergency Support Unit conducts cold patrols when temperatures hit dangerously cold levels.
"Stocking up our trucks with blankets, gloves, hand-warmers, and socks we will hand out to the homeless around town," Captain Mike Russell said.
They also arrange rides to shelters for those wanting to escape the cold.
"Of course cold exposure is the big thing," Captain Russell said. "Frostbite if it gets cold enough."
The patrols look may look different this year because of COVID-19. For instance, the volunteers won't enter the encampments, but the message is the same. Captain Mike Russell said this is a way to show these people needing help that they are not forgotten.
Anyone who needs shelter on Saturday night should go to the Nashville Rescue Mission first.
People and their pets are also welcomed at the overflow shelter at the Nashville Fairgrounds.
To find out more information about the Nashville Cold Weather Community Response Plan here.
