LCHD announces list of businesses, organizations serving as public warming centers

LINCOLN COUNTY – The Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD) this week announced a list of warming centers.

In a release, LCHD explained the businesses and organizations that volunteer to serve as warming centers welcome the public to get relief from extreme cold during their business hours.

“LCHD is reminding the public to take steps to protect themselves from extreme cold this winter,” LCHD stated. “Exposure to cold temperatures can cause frostbite and hypothermia and has the potential to be life-threatening. Anyone can have health issues from cold weather, but some people have a higher risk. This includes older adults, young children, people with health conditions and those who do not have safe, warm housing.”

LCHD said Lincoln County is “fortunate to have organizations and businesses who volunteer to serve as warming centers” and thanked the participating locations.

Tomahawk

Tomahawk warming centers, hours and contact information:

• Tomahawk Senior Center, 113 S. Tomahawk Ave. Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 715-453-5757.
• Tomahawk City Hall, 23 N. 2nd St. Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; 715-453-4040.
• Tomahawk Public Library, 300 W. Lincoln Ave. Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 715-453-2455.
• Strikers Tomahawk Bowl, 309 W. Wisconsin Ave. Monday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Tuesday, 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Wednesday – Sunday, 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. Hours may vary. 715-453-3245.

Merrill

Merrill warming centers, hours and contact information:

• Lincoln County Service Center, 801 N. Sales St. Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Merrill Enrichment Center, 303 N Sales St. Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 715-536-4226.
• Riverside Athletic Club, 500 S. Center Ave. Monday – Thursday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.; 715-536-2481.
• Smith Multi-Purpose Center (MARC), 1100 Marc Dr. Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 715-536-7313.
• B. Scott Free Library, 106 W. 1st St. Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 715-536-7191.
• Walmart, 505 S. Pine Ridge Ln. Monday – Sunday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. 715-536-2414.
• Les and Jim’s Lincoln Lanes, 1208 N. Center Ave. Monday – Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 pm. 715-536-9405.
• MAC Home, 407 W. Main St. Monday – Sunday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Standard screening will be done upon entry. 715-722-1200.

Gleason

Gleason warming centers, hours and contact information:

• Gleason Bowling Center, N4878 Hwy. 17. Monday, Wednesday – Saturday, 11 a.m. to close; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 715-873-4588.

LCHD also provided the following tips to stay safe during extreme cold.

Stay informed and be prepared

• Watch the weather and follow public safety recommendations.
• Be prepared by having an emergency supply kit for your home and vehicle with essentials like food, water, portable phone chargers, flashlights, blankets, sleeping bags and extra clothing.
• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working.

Stay warm and indoors

• Minimize outdoor activities.
• Dress in layers of loose, lightweight clothing instead of a single heavy layer. Layers trap heat and can help insulate your body.
• Wear water repellent jackets, snow pants, hats, mittens and boots.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from the cold.
• Be safe when using space heaters, a fireplace, or woodstove to heat your home.
• Seek out warming centers if needed.

Check in on others

• Know the warning signs of frostbite and hypothermia (uncontrollable shivering and disorientation). Seek medical help right away.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors to make sure they are safe.

Businesses or organizations interested in being a designated warming center may contact Kristin Bath, Public Health Educator, at kristin.bath@co.lincoln.wi.us or 715-536-0307.