Prairie State Wire

As colder weather approaches Edwardsville, city officials are reminding residents to take precautions to stay safe and warm. Public safety providers have issued a set of guidelines for the winter months.

Residents are advised not to use ovens or stoves as alternative heating sources because they can produce carbon monoxide and pose a fire risk. Portable heaters should be plugged directly into wall outlets, rather than extension cords or power strips, to reduce the risk of fire. Officials also recommend keeping portable heaters clear of other items and never placing anything on top of them.

When venturing outside, people should wear layered clothing and protect their face, ears, and hands from the cold. Drivers are encouraged to monitor their vehicle’s fuel level and keep winter supplies like blankets, gloves, and hats in their cars.

For those needing shelter during extreme cold, several warming centers will be available in Edwardsville when temperatures fall below freezing. These include the Edwardsville Public Library at 112 S. Kansas St., Main Street Community Center at 1003 N. Main St., YMCA Meyer Center at 7348 Goshen Road, and YMCA Niebur Center at 1200 Esic Drive. Operating hours vary by location.

If temperatures reach 20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, an Overnight Warming Location will open at First Baptist Church of Edwardsville on 534 St. Louis Street. Organizers will decide whether to activate this facility by noon each day based on forecasts; updates will be posted on the OWL’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/OvernightWarmingLocations

The United Way compiles an annual list of regional warming centers, which can be found online at www.211helps.org/warming-sites/. Residents are encouraged to check availability ahead of time as holiday closures may affect hours.

In case of emergency situations related to cold weather, residents should call 911.