Cooling & Warming Centers

COOK COUNTY COOLING CENTERS

Cooling centers are available across Cook County during periods of excessive heat.

When temperatures in Cook County are expected to rise to unsafe levels, the County's Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security provides an updated list of cooling centers for residents who do not have access to air conditioning. 

During hot weather, residents are reminded to:

  • Drink plenty of fluids.

  • Try to stay in the shade or indoors as much as possible.

  • If working outside, take frequent breaks, preferably in an air-conditioned space.

  • Check on elderly neighbors and those with functional needs.

  • Take pets indoors and make sure they have plenty of water.

  • Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle.

Residents who need to seek shelter at a cooling center should contact the center first to verify availability and hours of operation.

Look up the nearest cooling center


WARMING CENTERS AVAILABLE ACROSS COOK COUNTY DURING PERIODS OF EXTREME COLD

When temperatures in Cook County are expected to dip to unsafe levels, the County's Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security provides an updated list of warming centers for residents to protect themselves and their families. 

Residents should also keep the following tips in mind through the cold winter months:

  • 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.

LOOK UP THE NEAREST WARMING CENTER