Cook County Courthouse Warming Centers Open Amid Dangerous Wind Chills
Cook County Takes Action to Combat Extreme Weather Conditions
Cook County will experience extreme cold weather for several days starting Sunday afternoon, with the National Weather Service advising that wind chills will make it feel as cold as -15°F. To help residents combat these conditions, Cook County is opening warming centers in the north, west, and south suburbs.
Warming Center Locations
The warming centers will open at 12 p.m. on January 20 and run continuously until 4:30 p.m. on January 22. Residents who do not have adequate access to heat are advised to seek respite at a warming center. The locations are:
* Skokie Courthouse: 5600 Old Orchard Rd., Skokie, IL 60077
* Maywood Courthouse: 1500 Maybrook Dr., Maywood, IL 60153
* Markham Courthouse: 16501 S. Kedzie Ave., Markham, IL 60428
What to Expect at the Warming Centers
At the warming centers, residents can expect to find:
* Water and snacks
* Access to restrooms
* The ability to bring pets in cages or carriers (limited number of cages and carriers available at each location)
Additional Tips from the Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security
The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security reminds residents to take the following precautions to protect themselves and their families during extremely cold weather:
* Never use your oven for heat.
* Never bring charcoal or gas grills indoors (they are a carbon monoxide hazard).
* Make sure all portable heaters are unplugged when not in use.
* Use electric space heaters with extreme caution – avoid placing them near curtains or other flammable materials and turn them off before going to bed.
* Keep heat at adequate levels or leave faucets open with a slight drip to prevent pipes from freezing.
* Keep moving – your body generates its own heat when you engage in physical activities.
Conclusion
Cook County is taking proactive steps to help residents stay safe and warm during the extreme cold weather. We urge residents to take advantage of the warming centers and follow the important safety tips provided by the Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security.
FAQs
* Q: What are the locations of the warming centers?
A: The warming centers are located at the Skokie Courthouse, Maywood Courthouse, and Markham Courthouse.
* Q: What amenities are available at the warming centers?
A: Residents can expect to find water, snacks, and access to restrooms, as well as the ability to bring pets in cages or carriers.
* Q: How long will the warming centers be open?
A: The warming centers will be open from 12 p.m. on January 20 to 4:30 p.m. on January 22.
