Forecasters say this will be Chicago’s coldest Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in over 40 years, with air temps in the single digits and wind chills around 10-15 below.
For anyone who needs to warm up, there are warming centers available in the city and suburbs plus the Salvation Army has open two of their facilities to warm up. There's a full list at this link from WGN-TV News.
If you're trying to stay warm at home, People’s Gas recently posted reminders about how to stay safe when heating your home. They’ve got guidelines for using space heaters. They recommend using models with safety features like automatic shut-off, keeping them at least six feet away from drapes and blankets, and plugging them into the wall outlet instead of into extension cords or power strips.
They also warn against using stoves and ovens to heat your home and offered some ways to maximize the heat without maxing out your bill by keeping curtains or blinds open when the sun is out to help warm your home and closing them at night to help retain heat and cut down on drafts. And instead of turning up your thermostat, add a layer of clothing like a sweater or blanket to help keep you warm.
And the Chicago Bears are keeping fans safe and warm at today’s match up against the Bills at noon at Soldier Field. Warming centers, hot chocolate and coffee will be available and fans will be allowed to bring in battery-operated clothing and blankets. There are restrictions on tailgating that you can find at their website here. Fans can also text 815-880-1920 for any assistance, including automotive assistance. The parking lots open at 8 a.m., gates opening at 10 a.m. and kickoff is at noon... stay warm & Go Bears!