This week is Winter Weather Preparedness Week: How prepared are you?

Winter Weather Preparedness tips

This week is Winter Weather Preparedness week in Illinois and now is the time to start thinking of what you need to keep with you in your vehicle or what projects need to be done around the house for this upcoming winter season.

Even though it occurred nine months ago I'm sure the February blizzard is still fresh on the minds of everyone.  A major winter storm stranded people across northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, schools and businesses were closed and there were even reported power outages.  With another La Nina winter expected for us, it's important that you're prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw at you. 

Make sure you have plenty of non-perishable food, drinking water, a battery powered weather radio and a portable AM/FM radio, flashlights, medication and a first-aid kit in your home.  Also create a winter kit for you vehicle should you ever get stranded during a winter storm.  Many of the items you would need for you home you will want to put in your vehicle's kit along with extra clothing, blanket, tow rope, jumper cables, shovel and sand or cat litter (in case you get stuck).

We are already in late autumn and winter is just right around the corner.  Now is the time, if you haven't done so already, to make sure your furnace and fireplace are inspected and properly maintained and be sure to change or clean your furnace filters.

Some other tips to keep in mind:
Shoveling snow can be hard work; especially heavy, wet snow.  Know your limits when shoveling and be sure to rest frequently and pace yourself.  Use a proper snow shovel and be sure to lift with your legs and not your back.  Go inside immediately if you experience any chest or arm pain.

If you must travel during dangerous weather make sure someone knows your route and make sure you tell family and friends of your travel plans, when you're leaving and when you're expected to arrive at your destination.  Keep your gas tank full and make sure you have a winter kit in your vehicle.

If you were to lose power during a winter storm, place any type of space heater at least three feet away from walls, furniture and other combustible items.  Never light a grill or wood burner to heat your home.  If you use a portable generator make sure that is is properly ventilated outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.  Also, make sure you have a properly working carbon monoxide detector and smoke detector in your home.