YMCAs opening for hot showers, charging

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) – After the blizzard left tens of thousands of Southern New Englanders without power, emergency shelters have been set up across the state to help people recover and get warm.

A night without power is more than just an annoyance, for many it can be a health hazard.

“If you need a place to come and be warm, we are ready to accept people and will have snacks, hot drinks, blankets, and what you need to be comfortable to be out of the cold,” said Sara Smith from the American Red Cross.

The Red Cross is urging everyone to show up with a plan.

“If you are going to come to a shelter please bring identification, things to keep you busy, books, or games to play with your kids,” Smith added.

Numerous shelters will remain open for however long it takes residents to get back on their own safely.

A town-by-town list of open shelters is available in our Pinpoint Storm Beat.

Three YMCA locations have also opened up to act as emergency shelters, which include:

• Park Avenue in Cranston
• Hope Street in Providence
• Centerville Road in Warwick

Shelters will have basic supplies but they recommend that residents bring some personal items to make their visit more comfortable.

Some suggestions include:

• Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, or air mattresses
• Extra clothing, shoes
• Folding chairs
• Personal hygiene supplies
• Flashlights and batteries
• Quiet games, books, toys
• Important papers
• Prescription medications

Reminder: Pets are not allowed at shelters, unless they're providing a medical service such as seeing-eye dogs.