COURTESY OF THE CITY OF CHICAGO
DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY & SUPPORT SERVICES
Bitter cold temperatures are more than an inconvenience; they can pose a serious threat to health and safety. The City of Chicago has many services available to help residents weather the winter months.
CALL 311 TO:
• Locate a Warming Center near you.
• Request a well-being check for someone who may be at risk due to extreme cold weather.
• Report inadequate heat in a residential building.
• Learn about programs that assist with home heating costs.
• Connect to shelter and supportive services.
Protect Yourself and Family:
• Wear several layers of loose, warm clothing and keep your head, hands and feet covered when outdoors.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Recognize the symptoms of hypothermia: stiff muscles, shivering, puffy or swollen face, cold skin, slow breathing and mental confusion.
• Never use an extension cord with a space heater.
• Ovens should not be used to heat homes.
• Landlords must heat residential buildings to at least 68 degrees during the day and 66 degrees overnight.
If you are unable to resolve a heating problem with your landlord, call 3-1-1.
