Winsted warming centers open

WINSTED — In response to the deep cold expected this week, the Civil Preparedness Office is offering warming centers for those who need them.

“At the direction of Governor Lamont, the State of Connecticut is activating the Severe Cold Weather Protocol due to weather forecasts indicating severe cold temperatures and sub-zero wind chills for Monday and Tuesday nights,” said Steve Williams, emergency management director. “The severe cold weather protocol is in effect from Monday through noon Wednesday.”

Several municipal buildings will be open as warming centers this week, and a number of local businesses also have volunteered to help during normal business hours.

“Please consider making a purchase within these businesses to thank them for their willingness to help members of the community,” Williams said.

Because of COVID-19, anyone entering a warming center must wear a mask and maintain appropriate social distancing; this also applies to local businesses offering to act as warming centers, Williams said.

Town locations: Town Hall, Francis P. Hicks Room 338 Main St., will be open from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, and 8 a.m.-noon Friday.

The Blanche McCarthy Senior Center, 80 Holabird Ave., is open to anyone 55 and older, or who is disabled. Hours are 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, and Wednesday from 8 a.m.-noon.

The Open Door Soup Kitchen, 160 Main St., is open as a warming center from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. It is also open on the second and third Saturdays from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

The Beardsley & Memorial Library, Munro Place, will be open as a warming center from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday.

Winsted Area Volunteer Ambulance Headquarters at 655 Main St. will be open during the week, based on available staff members.

Local businesses that have volunteered as warming centers during their regular business hours are Dunkin’ Donuts, South Main Street; Dunkin’ Donuts, Hinsdale Avenue; Winsted News (The Cigar Store), Main Street; Kent Pizza, Main Street; McDonald’s, South Main Street; McGrane’s on the Green, Park Place West; ABC Pizza, Main Street; and Northwest Connecticut Realty, Main Street.

Anyone in need of Immediate Shelter can obtain assistance by calling 211 or by contacting/going to the Winchester Police Department.