A chilly blast is heading to New England, and cities are getting ready to help residents stay warm. In Boston, officials are setting up warming centers at community centers run by the Boston Centers for Youth and Families. These centers will be open from Tuesday through Sunday. The coldest hours are expected to be between midnight and 6 a. m.

Worcester is also stepping up to keep its residents safe. The city will have warming centers at the Worcester Public Library and Worcester Senior Center on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Officials are asking everyone to take some simple steps to stay safe. They recommend staying indoors as much as possible, covering up when you do go out, and wearing lots of layers. Don't forget about your pets—keep them inside and check their paws for frostbite. Also, check on your elderly neighbors or anyone who might struggle in the cold.

Frostbite can happen in just a minute, so be on the lookout for signs. At home, leave your cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate and keep your pipes from freezing. You can also let your faucets drip a little.

Plumbers at Roto-Rooter expect more emergency calls because of frozen pipes. "Keep your heat over 60 degrees, " advises Joe Delicio from Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. "Open cabinet doors in drafty areas, let your faucets drip, and the water flow will help prevent pipes from freezing. "

Be careful with space heaters, as they can cause house fires. Never use generators, grills, or camp stoves indoors.

The coldest mornings are expected from Tuesday through Thursday, with temperatures possibly dropping to single digits and wind chills below zero. Check your local forecast for the most up-to-date information.

For more tips on staying safe in the cold, click here.

Stay Warm, New England: Cities Open Warming Centers

Actions