Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy has activated the state's severe cold weather protocol to make sure vulnerable people are protected.

At the Bridgeport Rescue Mission, officials say they're in "overflow" mode. In addition to the 25 beds that are already filled, they say they've seen a handful of people come through their doors and are expecting more at the men's shelter.

There's also a women's and children's shelter, both located on Sylvan Avenue, that are also taking in extra people.

Management says if the temperature drops to 32 degrees or below, they won't turn men away from the shelter, unless they're under the influence of drugs or alcohol. They say they'll accommodate the extra bodies by setting up 15 plastic foam mattresses in the chapel. They're available on a first-come-first serve-basis each day. Anyone who can't secure a mattress can rest in a chair.

The mission says anyone wishing to stay in the chapel should arrive by 4:30 p.m. each day.

People can also warm up at the city's public library branches, senior centers and the Greater Bridgeport Transit Terminal.

Senior centers are only open on weekdays, with varying locations and hours.

Other cities and towns across western Connecticut are also opening their warming centers. Anyone unsure of where to go can call 211 from any phone in Connecticut for help.