Mayor Barrett provides warming center, cold weather safety information
MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett on Wednesday, December 14th held a news conference to provide cold weather safety information. He asked that everyone exercise common sense, and take care of themselves in the cold. He asked that we make sure to keep an eye on the most vulnerable. This, as a Wind Chill ADVISORY is set to take effect at 9:00 p.m. Wednesday.
The FOX6 Weather Experts said highs would be in the teens Wednesday, and it would feel below zero at times. Wind chills were expected at 15 to 25 below on Wednesday. On Thursday, December 15th, even colder air arrives -- with highs expected in the single digits and sub-zero lows.
A Wind Chill Advisory means that very cold air and strong winds would combine to generate low wind chills -- resulting in frostbite and leading to hypothermia if precautions weren't taken.
Staying in heated areas is the easiest way to protect yourself during periods of extreme cold.
You should consider visiting public buildings like malls, libraries and community centers if your home is insufficiently heated.
Call 211 for information about resources specific to your area.
There are several warming shelters available throughout Milwaukee County:
Warming Rooms in Milwaukee County
1335 W Vliet Street in Milwaukee
Open from 8:00 p.m.-4:00 a.m.
Walk-in from 8:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. for entry
125 W Saveland Avenue in Milwaukee
Call 211 for entry
1610 S. 81st Street in West Allis
Open when temperatures are 10 degrees or below, 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
Walk-in for entry
1216 N 13th Street in Milwaukee
Call 211 for entry
Daytime Warming Rooms in Milwaukee County
8853 S. Howell in Milwaukee
Open 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. M-F
Walk-in for entry or call 414-762-3993
4129 W Villard in Milwaukee
Open 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. M-F
Walk-in for entry
5555 W. Capitol Drive in Milwaukee
Open when temperatures are 20 degrees or below, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Call 414-731-1174 for entry
Call 211 for information about places to stay warm, including emergency shelter options that are available year-round.
Feeding His Flock warming shelter
Officials say the most vulnerable when it comes to the bitter cold are children, the elderly, and of course, the homeless. On average, there can be 200-250 people living on the streets in Milwaukee.
"We are working very closely with our local homeless shelters. Our focus is making sure we have enough capacity with some of the warming rooms," Rafael Acevedo said.
Mayor Barrett reminded residents to always check on elderly relatives and neighbors throughout the season, and especially during extreme temperature events.
"Make sure to check on family members and friends, neighbors -- the elderly, the disabled, and people who have nobody living with them," Mayor Barrett said.
Colder weather can put the elderly at higher risk for health problems.
Mayor Barrett on Wednesday stressed that everyone follow basic winter safety tips -- like dressing appropriately for the weather -- wearing gloves, scarves, hats and jackets, and it's important to limit skin exposure to the bitter cold.
"Hypothermia is a life-threatening situation and it occurs when body temperatures drop too low, causing shivering, drowsiness and confusion.The cold wind chills will cause frostbite in as little as 30 minutes to exposed skin. Cover those ears. Gloves. Wear those mittens. Wear those hats. Again -- this is all basic stuff," Barrett said.
It's also a good idea to keep a survival kit in your vehicle with blankets and extra clothing in case you become stranded -- and remember, it's a good idea to keep your vehicle secured at all times.
"Do not keep your car running unless you are in it. This is the time of year we see an increase in auto thefts," Barrett said.
If you'd like to help those less fortunate, you can donate jackets, blankets and non-perishable food items at any shelter or warming room.
You can stay safe all winter long by following these health and safety tips:
2. Stay safe at home:
3. Stay safe outdoors:
4. Stay safe when traveling: