Help the Homeless During Frigid Weather

WEDNESDAY'S LOW at Reagan National Airport dipped to 25 degrees. Tonight, Capital Weather predicts that lows could plunge as far as 15 degrees. Prolonged exposure to below-freezing temps can lead to hypothermia and other problems, which makes frigid days like today particularly dangerous for the homeless.

It's at times like these that local jurisdictions ramp up their efforts to help people who don't have anywhere to go to get out of the cold. The following are some numbers you can call to get help for someone you see or know who's homeless.

» D.C.: The District's Hypothermia Shelter Hotline provides transportation to emergency shelters and distributes items such as blankets, gloves and jackets. Reach them by phone at 1-800-535-7252.

» MARYLAND: Montgomery County's Homeless Services coordinates efforts for adults and families separately. For families, contact 240-777-4550 in Rockville, 240-777-3075 in Silver Spring or 240-777-4448 in Germantown. After hours, call the county's crisis line at 240-777-4000. For adults without children, call 301-315-4000. Find out more here.

In Prince George's County, the Warm Nights Program offers daily 12-hour overnight shelter for homeless adults and families during the winter months. You can call the Homeless Hotline at 1-888-731-0999, or at 301-864-7140. Find out more here.

» VIRGINIA: Arlington County's Department of Human Services Crisis Assistance Bureau helps find housing for the homeless. Contact them at 703-228-1350 or the Arlington Street People's Assistance Network at 703-820-HELP (4357). Get more information here.

In Alexandria, the Winter Hypothermia Shelter provides overnight stays during the winter months at various locations. Call 703-548-7500 or go here for more information.

Fairfax County's homeless shelters increase their capacity during the winter months to allow more people to find a warm place to sleep. The county's Web site directs those fearing for a homeless person's well being to call the county's non-emergency phone line at 703-691-2131. More information about county shelters can be found here.