A Code Blue Tier 2 extreme winter weather response has been extended and expanded across parts of South Australia, as prolonged low temperatures continue to affect several regions.
The response was first activated at 9am on Tuesday 23 June for the Clare Valley, Mount Lofty Ranges, Murraylands, Riverland and Upper South East. It was initially due to end at 5pm on Wednesday 24 June, but has now been extended until 5pm on Friday 26 June.
The activation has also been expanded to include Kangaroo Island.
The Code Blue response now covers the Clare Valley, Kangaroo Island, Mount Lofty Ranges, Murraylands, Riverland and Upper South East.
The response is designed to support people who are homeless, sleeping rough or at risk of homelessness during periods of severe winter weather, helping them access safe, warm and dry places to stay.
Under the Code Blue activation, homelessness services and their partners may increase daytime operating hours, extend street outreach, promote existing support services and provide practical assistance such as clothing, water, food and blankets.
Safe places may also be made available during the day for people to temporarily seek refuge from extreme weather. Overnight accommodation or shelter is available under this activation in the specified regions.
Anyone who is homeless, sleeping rough, at risk of homelessness, or concerned about someone experiencing homelessness, is encouraged to contact Homeless Connect SA on 1800 003 308. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Support available may vary by location.
Minister for Human Services Katrine Hildyard said cold conditions created serious risks for people without shelter.
“We know cold weather creates heightened risk for people sleeping rough. We want them to know they are not alone, that there is support available.
“With Code Blue now expanded, more people experiencing homelessness can access additional support during periods of severe weather, including a safe place to stay, emergency accommodation options and practical assistance.
“We want to help ensure vulnerable South Australians are not left exposed during winter weather.
“The expanded Code Blue response strengthens outreach, support and emergency accommodation pathways for people without a safe place to sleep, helping ensure support is available when it is most needed by community members who need a hand.”
More information about current Code Blue activations and triggers is available at www.sa.gov.au.
