SHAWANO COUNTY, WI – The Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department is reminding residents that warming centers will be available as dangerously cold temperatures move into the area.
According to the Health Department, extreme cold is forecast to begin Thursday night and continue through Saturday, January 24. Officials say the frigid conditions could pose serious health risks, including frostbite and hypothermia, especially for those without adequate heat.
Several public buildings in Shawano County will be open as warming centers during regular business hours. These locations are intended to provide a warm place to escape the cold but do not offer food, showers, or medical services.
Warming center locations include the Shawano County Courthouse, where the lower level rooms A and B will be open Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In addition, Shawano County Libraries will serve as warming centers, including the Bonduel, Shawano, Tigerton, and Wittenberg branches during their normal Friday and Saturday hours.
Health Officer Nick Mau says extreme winter weather can be life-threatening if precautions are not taken. He encourages residents to stay indoors when possible, dress in layers if going outside, and check in on friends, family, and neighbors who may be vulnerable.
Officials also urge residents to keep pets indoors as much as possible and to use heating equipment safely. Gas or propane heaters and grills should never be used inside homes, and generators should be placed at least 20 feet away from buildings to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
For more information on warming center hours or winter safety tips, residents can contact the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department.
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