Cook County officials have announced the opening of warming centers at several courthouse locations as extreme cold weather is expected to impact the region for several days. According to the National Weather Service, wind chills could make temperatures feel as low as -10°F beginning Saturday evening.
The warming centers will be available 24 hours a day starting at 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, and will remain open until 8 a.m. Wednesday, January 21. Locations include the Skokie Courthouse at 5600 Old Orchard Rd., Skokie; Maywood Courthouse at 1500 Maybrook Dr., Maywood; and Markham Courthouse at 16501 S. Kedzie Ave., Markham.
Residents without adequate heat are encouraged to use these facilities for shelter from the cold. The centers will offer water, snacks, and restroom access. Pets are permitted if they are in cages or carriers, with a limited number of carriers available onsite.
In addition to these county-run centers, municipalities across Cook County operate their own warming centers.
Residents seeking more information about nearby warming centers or other social services can call 2-1-1.
The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) has advised residents to take safety precautions during the 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.”
