Be Prepared!

Today is unseasonably warm, but winter will be here before you know it. Already, forecast high temperatures are just 37 for Peoria on Monday. Brr!

Peoria always has the chance of a severe winter storm with looming threats of snow, ice, and power outages. Last week, I encouraged everyone to check your preparedness levels when turning your clocks back for daylight savings time.

This week, the Peoria County Emergency Management Agency is also urging preparedness:

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This month, Peoria County's Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is raising awareness of Winter Storm Preparedness Month. The winter months are coming, which means freezing temperatures, snow, and ice are just around the corner. Along with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS), Peoria County EMA encourages citizens to prepare for those hazards this month, before they occur.

November is the time to start thinking about winter preparedness. Do you have an emergency supply kit at home and in your car? Severe winter weather can cause widespread power outages and dangerous driving conditions. With an emergency supply kit at home and in the car, you'll be prepared for the winter months. A home supply kit should be stocked with items to stay safe for at least three days. An emergency preparedness kit in a vehicle will help travelers stay safe and warm until help arrives. A winter storm preparedness guide developed by IEMA, NWS, and the American Red Cross is available at www.ready.illinois.gov. The guide provides tips for staying safe this winter and information about creating emergency supply kits.

Residents of Peoria County are encouraged to participate in Winter Storm Preparedness Month by preparing for winter hazards now. For more information on Winter Storm Preparedness Month, please call Peoria County's Emergency Management Agency at 691-3111 or visit www.ready.illinois.gov.