Snow in metro Atlanta: Public warming centers open in DeKalb

Libraries, recreation centers and several fire stations in DeKalb County are open to the public as places to keep warm over the next few days.

The DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency designated the locations as warming centers because a winter weather emergency has been declared for the area.

Cold temperatures, snow and ice could arrive in the area as soon as this afternoon.

Libraries and recreation centers will be open during normal business hours, and Fire Stations 6, 8, 21 and 25 will be available around the clock for anyone in need.

County officials also shared several tips to prepare for winter weather:

• Use proper ventilation for fireplaces and electric heaters. Don't use an oven as a heater.
• If your home loses heat, stuff towns in cracks under doors and cover windows at night.
• Keep pets inside.
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses.
• Leave a thin stream of water flowing from a bathroom faucet to reduce the chance of a pipe freezing.

DeKalb residents can sign up for the county's emergency notification system, CodeRED.