Illinois opens warming centers for frigid weather

SPRINGFIELD - The state of Illinois has opened more than 100 warming centers as temperatures fall.

The Illinois Department of Human Services said Monday that centers are at their offices statewide. They are open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

State officials say Illinois Tollway oases also are available 24 hours a day, every day as Chicago-area warming centers.

Gov. Pat Quinn and the state Department on Aging are encouraging residents to use the warming centers and check on the elderly.

On Monday morning temperatures were below freezing in Illinois. It was 19 degrees in Chicago, 22 in Springfield and 26 in Carbondale.

To find a warming center near you, call (800) 843-6154 or visit www.keepwarm.illinois.gov.