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Winter Storms and Extreme Cold
There has not been a winter in Illinois this century
without a sever winter storm. On average, Illinois experiences five severe
winter storms each year. As few as two (in the winters of 1921-1922 and
1980-1981) and as many as 18 (in the winters of 1977-1978 and 1981-1982) have
occurred.
Severe
winter storms can cause widespread damage and disruption. Heavy snow often
results in paralyzed transportation systems, automobile accidents due to
slippery roads and stranded vehicles. When accompanied by intense winds
and extreme cold, snow, snow can isolate entire towns. these conditions
are a dangerous threat to life. Glazing from ice storms topples utility
lines and poles and makes travel virtually impossible. even waling may be
a dangerous venture.
The hazards posed by winter storms and extreme cold can be
catastrophic. However, you and your family can take actions now that will
increase your chances of surviving winter storms and extreme cold.
Before A Winter Storm Or Extreme Cold
 | Know the terms relating to winter storms and extreme
cold. (See terms) |
| Know the names of the counties in which you live, work
and frequent. County names are used to identify areas at risk |
| Learn how to protect your family's health during the
winter months:
 | Learn to dress appropriately for the winter. (See |
| Learn the physical dangers to your body. (See |
|
| Gather emergency supplies for work or home:
| A battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a
battery-powered commercial radio and extra batteries. These may be
your only links to the outside world if electrical service is interrupted. |
| Foods that do not require cooking or refrigeration
are best. Include high energy foods such as dried fruit and candy. |
| Extra medications and special items for babies, the
disabled or elderly. |
| Extra water in clean containers |
| Rock salt to melt ice on walkways and sand to improve
tractions |
| Flashlights and extra batteries. Do not use
candles; they are a fire hazard. |
|
| Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel
supply:
| Insulate walls and attics. |
| Caulk and weather strip doors and windows. |
| Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic. |
|
| Take steps to prevent frozen water pipes:
| Locate and insulate pipes most susceptible to
freezing-typically those near outer walls, in crawl spaces or in attics. |
| Wrap pipes with heat tape (UL Approved). |
| Seal any leaks that allow cold air inside where pipes
are located. |
| Disconnect garden hoses and shut of and drain water
from pipes leading to outside faucets. This reduces the chance of
freezing in the short span of pipe just inside the house. |
| Make sure you and your family know how to shut off
the water, in case pipes burst. |
|
| Prepare for possible isolation in your home:
| Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel.
After a severe winter storm, regular fuel carriers may not reach you for
days. |
| Have emergency heating equipment (fireplaces, wood
burning stoves or space heaters) and amply fuel so you can keep at least one
room of your house warm enough to be livable, If your furnace is controlled
by a thermostat and your electricity is cut off by a storm, you will need
emergency heat. Another option is a kerosene heater. However, it
is important that the manufacturer' operating instruction be followed.
Learn to use emergency heating sources properly to prevent a fire.
Always ensure proper ventilation. |
| Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your
family knows how to use them. |
|
| Prepare you vehicle for the winter:
| Winterize your vehicle following the suggested
maintenance schedule included in the owners manual or have your vehicle
serviced by a reputable dealer, garage, or mechanic. |
| Check you wipers, tires, lights, and fluid levels
(radiator, windshield washer, power steering, oil and brakes) regularly.
Make sure the brakes and transmission are working properly. Lubricate
door and trunk locks with lock lubricant to prevent them from freezing. |
| Prepare a Winter Storm Survival Kit (see survival
Kits) and carry it in your vehicle. |
|
