Warming Centers in Baltimore County
If you are looking for access to water and bathrooms in a warm environment, then Baltimore County has several “warming centers” available where you can get relief from the cold.
During the months of November through March, Baltimore County Public Library has 17 convenient branches that are also open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Residents can warm up while reading a book or enjoying scheduled events at a branch in their community. For more information on a library branch nearest you or the locations that are open Friday through Sunday, call 410-887-6100.
Baltimore County Senior Centers are also open to the general public, regardless of age, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents who visit these locations to get relief from the cold can watch TV, read a book or sit and relax. For information on the 20 Senior Centers, call 410-887-2594.
Other "Warming" Places
There are other places you can go to warm up in Baltimore County:
Community Centers
Churches
Malls
Movie Theaters
Museums
Neighbor's home with heat
Restaurants
Overnight Shelters
Temporary, overnight shelters are available November through March when temperatures reach 32 degrees or lower at the following two locations:
Eastside Family Shelter - 9100 Franklin Square Drive, Baltimore, MD 21237
Westside Men's Shelter - 55 Wade Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228
For more information, call 410-853-3000 if you have questions about either shelter.
Cold Weather Reminders
The combination of low temperatures and wind chill constitute a threat, especially to certain groups of people: older adults, children, and people with respiratory or other health problems. Below are some tips to help you and your family get relief from the cold and stay safe.
Be Cautious and Prepared!
Make sure that you have a 72-hour kit.
Check on those who are elderly and/or chronically ill.
Keep infants in a warm room since they lose heat easily.
Cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, follow your doctor's advice about exercising or working in the cold.
If you are hiking, camping, or skiing during cold weather, avoid becoming overtired. Be extremely careful when walking in icy areas. Many cold-weather injuries result from falls on ice-covered paths.
Eat Right
Eating well-balanced meals will help you stay warmer.
Do not drink alcoholic or caffeinated beverages—they cause your body to lose heat more rapidly.
Drink warm, beverages or broth to help maintain your body temperature. If you have any dietary restrictions, consult with your doctor.
Dress Warmly & Stay Dry—Adults and children should wear:
A hat, a scarf or knit mask to cover face and mouth
Sleeves that are snug at the wrist
Mittens (they are warmer than gloves)
Water-resistant coat and boots
Several layers of loose-fitting clothing if you are going to be outside
Don’t Leave Your Pets Outdoors
During extreme weather, bring your pets indoors and provide them with adequate food and water.
Remember to have an emergency plan for your pet too. Most shelters do not allow pets.
Prevent the Spread of Colds & Flu
Get a flu shot.
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with warm, soapy water. And thoroughly scrub hands, wrists, fingernails, and between fingers.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick with colds or flu.
If you get sick, stay home to avoid spreading it to others.
Avoid crowded places wherever possible.
Revised April 30, 2012
