Below-freezing temperatures are expected to continue in Chicago well into the first week of the new year, but warming centers and other services are available for the homeless and those who may be vulnerable to the dangerous conditions.
Those needing assistance can call 311 to locate a nearby warming center, request a well-being check for others and connect with other support services like help with home heating costs.
Anyone struggling to resolve a heating problem with their landlord is also encouraged to call 311. The city website reminds people that landlords are required to heat residential buildings to at least 68 degrees during the day and 66 degrees overnight.
Warming centers are available in several neighborhoods across the city, but other locations may be opened for warming purposes under extreme conditions. Below is a list of neighborhood warming centers, but residents are encouraged to call 311 first for information on extended hours and other locations.
Auburn Gresham / Englewood Center — 1140 W. 79th St.
Garfield Center — 10 S. Kedzie Ave.
King Center — 4314 S. Cottage Grove Ave.
North Area — 845 W. Wilson Ave.
South Chicago — 8650 S. Commercial Ave.
Trina Davila — 4312 W. North Ave.
The city’s protection reminders include keeping head, hands and feet covered when outdoors and not using an extension cord with space heaters.
Symptoms of hypothermia may include stiff muscles, shivering, puffy or swollen face, cold skin, slow breathing and confusion.
Visit the the city website for more information, which is also available in Spanish and Polish.