Community Corner

Oak Park Warming Centers Include Village Hall, Rush Hospital

Warming centers available in Oak Park

From the Village of Oak Park: 

Area temperatures are predicted to plunge to the season’s lowest levels from Sunday through Tuesday, with wind chills reaching dangerous levels.

Officials say temperatures on Monday and Tuesday will not rise above zero. The last time temperatures stayed below zero for 48 hours was Dec. 23 – 25, 1983.

Find out what's happening in Oak Park-River Forestwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Residents are urged to limit time outdoors for themselves and their pets, as well as to check in on friends and neighbors who may need assistance.

Warming centers

Find out what's happening in Oak Park-River Forestwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Warming centers are open from 5:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. at West Suburban Medical Center, Erie Street at Austin Boulevard, and from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Rush Oak Park Hospital, 500 S. Maple Ave. Hours may be extended when weather conditions warrant.

To find out if the warming center is open after hours, call West Suburban Hospital at 708.763.6747 or Rush Oak Park Hospital at 708.660.6000. If transportation is needed, call the Oak Park Police Department’s non-emergency number 708.386.3800.

Village Hall, 123 Madison St., also is a warming center from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Safety tips

  • Limit time you're outdoors in cold, wet or windy weather. Pay attention to weather forecasts and wind chill readings. In very cold, windy weather, exposed skin can develop frostbite in a matter of minutes.
  • Dress in several layers of loose, warm clothing rather than a single layer. Air trapped between the layers of clothing acts as insulation against the cold. Wear windproof and waterproof outer garments to protect against wind, snow and rain. Choose undergarments that wick moisture away from your skin.
  • Wear a hat that fully covers your ears. Heavy woolen or windproof materials make the best headwear for cold protection.
  • Wear mittens rather than gloves, which provide better protection.
  • Watch for signals of frostbite. Early signs include redness, prickling and numbness.
  • Plan to protect yourself. When traveling in cold weather, carry emergency supplies and warm clothing in case you become stranded.


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