 IEMA and NWS will highlight winter storm preparedness throughout
November as part of the annual winter preparedness campaign.
"Fortunately, we haven't experienced winter weather yet this season,
but the East Coast storm is a vivid reminder of what could be right
around the corner," said IEMA Director Jonathon Monken. "And with
February's blizzard still fresh in most people's minds, we hope
Illinois residents will follow our advice and begin preparing for
winter storms now."
To help people prepare for winter hazards, IEMA, NWS and the
American Red Cross developed a preparedness guide with information about winter weather terms and tips for
staying safe at home, in the car, and at work or school. This
guide is available on the Ready Illinois website at
www.ready.illinois.gov
or by calling 217-785-9888.
Widespread power outages caused by heavy snow or ice can be
particularly dangerous during the cold winter months. That's why
IEMA and NWS recommend emergency preparedness kits for homes and
vehicles. A home preparedness kit should be stocked with items to
help residents stay safe for at least three days. The kits should
include a battery-powered NOAA weather radio, a flashlight, extra
batteries, nonperishable food, water, a first-aid kit, extra
medications and special items needed for babies, disabled or elderly
family members, and family pets.
"At least one severe winter storm has affected Illinois every
winter for the past 100 years," said Chris Miller, warning
coordination meteorologist with NWS in Lincoln. "That's why it's so
important to take time now to prepare your family, your home and
your automobiles in advance of winter weather. Prior to an
anticipated storm, heed the warnings and use the time to gather any
supplies you will need for a few days, or make adjustments to any
travel plans you may have."
During the February blizzard, thousands of motorists were
stranded by up to 2 feet of snow that fell in some areas of the
state. A vehicle emergency preparedness kit can help keep travelers
safe until help arrives. A car or truck kit should include a
cellphone and charger, flashlight, extra batteries, first-aid kit,
snack foods and water, blankets, extra clothing, gloves and hats,
sand or kitty litter, shovel, windshield scraper, and a tool kit.
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In addition to stocking a vehicle preparedness kit, motorists
should also take special precautions when traveling during the
winter months. Always check the latest weather conditions along your
travel route before leaving on a trip. Travel during daylight hours
on main roads and provide your itinerary to a friend, relative or
co-worker.
If you become stranded, pull as far off the road as possible, set
your hazard lights to flashing, and hang or tie a colored cloth
(preferably red) to your antenna, window or door. Stay in your
vehicle, where rescuers are most likely to find you. Make sure the
exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow, and then run the engine and
heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. Open a window
slightly for ventilation when the engine is running, and
periodically clear away snow from the exhaust pipe.
For more information about emergency preparedness, visit the
Ready Illinois website at www.ready.illinois.gov.
[Text from
Illinois
Emergency Management Agency file received from
the
Illinois Office of
Communication and Information]
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