Storm Preparedness 03-22-18

STORM PREPAREDNESS 2018 GUIDE

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IN RECOVERY

As homes thaw out from winter, yards can use a little TLC

By AIMEE BARROWS

Sub-zero temperatures and heavy snow can wreak havoc on driveways, sidewalks, lawns and gardens.

And once winter ends, homeowners can be left with damage that needs to be repaired or replaced.

SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

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 Post winter pavement problems?

The freeze-thaw cycle can cause driveways to crack and shift, and rock salt can also cause problems, especially for concrete driveways. But there are steps homeowners should take that can help driveway damage over the winter. Richard C. DuBois, president of DuBois Paving in West Dundee, explains that asphalt and concrete have different needs when it comes to prevention and repair.

“Asphalt is made of sand, rock and oil, and is more pliable. It’s much cheaper than concrete, but needs to be re-coated every few years, depending on how severe the winters are. Concrete is expensive, but can last up to 30 years or longer,” he says.  Use calcium chloride or potassium chloride salt instead of rock salt. While not as harmful to asphalt driveways, rock salt can cause significant damage to concrete.  Move downspouts away from driveways because water can seep under the driveway,

freeze when the temperatures fall, which can lead to cracking or heaving. Position the downspouts in a place that will allow the water to run down the driveway and not pool in an area next to the driveway.  Pay attention to cracks. Water can get in large cracks, which can soften the material and lead to more cracks, which could lead to large holes.  Large, singular cracks can be replaced with asphalt or concrete crack filler, which are available at most Big Box stores. However, if the driveway or sidewalk is more than 50 percent cracked, it makes sense to get it replaced.  Proper permits are required when replacing a driveway. One way to ensure you’re getting a quality paving company is to call the municipality to ask which company pulls the most permits. This means that the company does things by the books and is licensed and bonded in the town where the work will be done.

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Melting snow is a sure sign spring is right around the corner. And while we’d all like to see a nice green lawn under the snow, that’s not always the case. Snow can cause mold, which looks like gray, white or pinkish crusty circles on the grass. The mold is caused by cold weather fungi, and it’s usually not obvious that there’s a problem until spring arrives. It’s more likely to occur after a heavy snow on ground that’s not completely frozen. Winter moisture, coupled with leaves and other ground debris, can be a breeding ground for snow mold.

However, when snow mold does happen, Toth explains that there are simple fixes for the unsightly spots on the lawn.

than normal so longer grass blades won’t fold over on itself, which could be an ideal environment for fungal growth.

 Break up and spread out large piles of snow on the grass, which will allow it to melt faster so it’s less likely to sit on the ground and cause mold.

Run-off from downspouts, sump pumps or storms can cause vegetation and grass to suffocate and die if left standing for too long. Toth explains that to alleviate the problem, homeowners need to find a way to divert the excess water into a storm drain.

 Before it snows, remove leaves and debris from the grass so it doesn’t cover the lawn and add an extra layer of moisture between snow and the ground.  Once the lawn has gone dormant for the season before winter, mow the grass shorter

 Underground drainage systems are effective at re-routing water. Downspouts connect to flexible drainage pipes underneath the soil and funnel it to a storm sewer.

 Regulate your run-off This one could easily go along with the flooding package, if we need more there.

“We see the most problems with standing water, which causes soggy turf, which leads to rot and disease,” he says.

 Create a dry creek bed on a slope or lower point on the property. Fill the bed with plants that can tolerate dry conditions.

The bed is an aesthetically-pleasing way to divert water to the sewer.  Underground catch basins are buried 55-gallon drums that are filled with gravel.

The drums are connected to downspouts where they collect water and allow it to evaporate or seep out into the soil.

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Dan Toth, owner of Lawn Doctor in Batavia, says snow mold isn’t usually a big problem in the area during very cold winters because the ground often completely freezes before snow falls. While fungicides are available, Toth generally does not recommend using them before the winter to head off mold. He says because fungi spores are so tiny, it’s hard for homeowners to know how much they have on their lawns, and fungicides are expensive and not always effective.

 Rake out the moldy grass to open the turf and allow it to dry out. Usually, the grass will regrow in the spring, but if it doesn’t, homeowners can re- seed or re-sod the spot. Seeding can be done at any time of the year, while sod will need to done in the spring or summer.

STORM PREPAREDNESS | SHAW MEDIA

 Solving the snow mold mystery

SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

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WIND WATCHERS Before and after tips from insurance pros

By CHRIS WALKER

M

ost people remember “The Three Little Pigs” from when they were kids and many have revisited the popular old story as parents and grandparents.

The story goes like this: three pigs build houses of different materials and a big, bad and hungry wolf attempts to blow them down in the hopes of enjoying some pork chops courtesy of the owners. The wolf has no problem with the first two houses made of straw and sticks, but he huffs and puffs to no avail on the house made of bricks.

The moral of the story is to build well, and build strong. But once your house is standing, what can you do to ensure some wolf-like winds don’t devour your home and property?

According to www.statefarm.com there are several things you can do before and after storm.

BEFORE THE STORM  Preparation plans should be made months in advance so you’re safe from injury when severe weather strikes.

The plan should include shelter, which is likely the middle of the home or basement and away from windows and glass doors. You should also store important papers (insurance policies, birth certificates, etc.) offsite, such as in a safety deposit box at your bank.  That beautiful tree that provides much-needed shade in the summer or those two trees that are home to your hammock probably don’t need to go, but likely need an inspection and a trim.

No one wants a windstorm to send

branches crashing through the roof or the living room. It’s important to have a professional inspect trees on your property for loose or damaged branches.  Watch the forecasts, and safely store away items that severe winds can move, such as grills, patio furniture and trashcans. Don’t forget the children’s toys and potted plants. Move your car and any other vehicles into the garage or some other place where they will have shelter.  During the most extreme storms, it may be wise to board up windows and glass doors to minimize damage and injuries from broken glass.

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 Shingles from the roof can disappear in the sky like magic carpets during high winds. Others can have their seals broken, leaving the roof susceptible to wind-driven rains that can do additional damage.  Uninvited items can ride the wind onto your roof. They may already have done damage due to the force in which they collided with the roof, or if they aren’t removed they could do future damage.

 Are your gutters, twins? They definitely may no longer look alike once attacked by the wind. Check to make sure none have become dislodged, loose, bent, clogged or have disappeared.  If your home has siding, it needs to be inspected for damage, especially if the winds were accompanied by hail.  The chimney area also needs to be inspected thoroughly, because any loose bricks can provide openings into the attic and elsewhere.

PREVENTION IS THE BEST MEDICINE Tree trimming can be an important step in protecting your home from high winds Like that feeling and fresh look that comes after a long overdue haircut, most homeowners enjoy the sense of pride that comes from a finely manicured lawn and landscaping, but some forget to take care of their trees.

Keeping your trees properly trimmed keeps them looking beautiful and balanced, but even more important, it reduces the risk that your own trees end up damaging your home when Mother Nature rears her ugly head.

Its an issue more and more on the minds of homeowners, says Ted Ranney, owner of Skyline Tree Services in St. Charles. “It’s directly related to the insurance companies who are letting them

know about hazardous trees.”

Ranney explains that any dead trees or branches within falling range of the home, deck/ patio, gutters and chimney, are dangerous.

“The dead trees also invite decay, disease and insects,” Ranney says. “So that’s another factor to consider.”

A company like Skyline Tree Services can send a certified arborist to complete a tree risk assessment so homeowners can enjoy peace of mind that their trees are being properly cared for and that whatever trimming and other services are needed are completed by a reputable company.

“Some have live branches over their home and the moisture there gives it the opportunity for moss and increases the aging rate of the shingles,” Ranney says. “But the biggest concern is to ensure the safety of the people coming in and around the house, patio or deck or whatever, and the safety of the actual structure itself.”

That’s why Ranney stresses that homeowners take of trees because they require such care and are valuable to your property.

“It’s not only dead wood in a tree, although a dead tree that hasn’t been removed that falls is negligence,” he says. “A live tree that falls is an act of God.”

-Continued on page 6

• Thursday, March 22, 2018

 Like bugs at a picnic, repair companies flock to neighborhoods after a storm. Keep in mind that not all of them are legitimate. Be careful, ask lots of questions, do research, obtain information and most definitely talk to your insurance company before signing a contract for repairs.

STORM PREPAREDNESS | SHAW MEDIA

AFTER THE STORM

-Continued from page 5

ON TOP OF IT

Quick roof repair can be key to weathering the next wind storm

S

ure, your roof was designed to fight off the elements, but sometimes the storm lands a few blows that leave your roof damaged, or at least makes you wonder as you crane your neck and peer upward once the storm has passed Matt Adler knows what homeowners are experiencing. He’s a project engineer with Adler Roofing and Sheet Metal in Joliet. He recently answered a few questions about roofing solutions.

Q: How do you look for signs that your home has been damaged?

Q: Why should you get your roof repaired as soon as possible?

Q: How do you choose a reputable roofing repair company?

A: After a storm with hail or wind, or a vigorous thunderstorm, we tell people to go around the outside of the home and look at shingles and the gutters and anything you can see with the naked eye for any visual changes.

A: Go quickly, because you want to prevent any further damage. A lot of times we go on a repair call from six months ago and a simple two-or-three shingle repair or recaulking of the chimney turns into much more because there’s so much damage. It’s always beneficial to the homeowner and their insurance agent to do something as soon as you suspect something is wrong and get a licensed contractor out there immediately for a free inspection.

A: I tell homeowners that we’re fortunate in Will County that we have so many good contractors, but it’s unfortunate that there are these ‘storm chasers’ that also come out. They’re nothing but a problem and when you try to reach them later they’ve left the state so you feel bad when you hear these horror stories. But there are a lot of good ones in the area. Feel safe by staying local and asking for references from people you know.

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Choosing the wrong contractor could cost you thousands. Many fly-by-night roofing contractors prey on unsuspecting property owners in storm areas.

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SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

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POWER DOWN?

Tips to help you take back control

By KELSEY O’CONNOR

xtreme weather. Equipment damage. Grid failure. There

are plenty of factors that can lead to a power outage. Typically these interruptions are just a mild inconvenience. But in some cases, a loss of electricity can quickly turn dangerous.

SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

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Any power outage can be potentially hazardous for the elderly, children, and the disabled. Risks include injury, exposure to the elements, water contamination and food poisoning due to lack of refrigeration. But with careful planning, these dangers can be avoided.

Tips on Weathering the Storm for your Landscape The recent warmer temperatures are making many spring blooming plants feel as though it’s time for them to grow and bloom.

Spring bulbs, such as daffodils and tulips, will not be damaged by the snow or cold. However, deer are hungry and will eat the first green plants they can find.

Protect spring blooming trees and shrubs; rhododendrons, azaleas, crabapples and magnolias.

Their buds have been waiting all winter to open and we don’t want them to freeze.

If at all possible, wrap your shrubs and cover

 HOW TO PREPARE FOR A POWER OUTAGE Have the right supplies • Make an emergency kit that includes: - Flashlights - New batteries - Battery-powered clock radio - Non-perishable foods, such as canned items - Water, about one gallon per person per day - Local maps - Emergency blankets - Cash • Keep a basic first aid kit in your home and car.

• Make sure your car’s gas tank is full. Consider filling an extra container with gas in case the gas supply is interrupted.

• If you or a loved one may needs extra assistance during an emergency, give your information to your

stake your tree as well.

Protect them from the deer with repellents and/or chicken wire or bird netting.

Perennials that have peeked out of the ground will not be damaged from the cold but could see damage from hail, causing holes in the leaves. This should not kill the plants, but they will look unsightly until new foliage grows to cover the damaged leaves.

Here are some helpful tips on what to do before and during a power outage to keep your family safe.

After storms, you may notice a tree limb has been broken. Prune broken branches off of the tree by

shorter trees with burlap, bird netting, or landscape fabric when warned of dropping temperatures. Be sure to NEVER cover them with plastic as it will pull the frost right through the plastic onto your plants.

Prevent trees with a trunk diameter of less than 2” from leaning or even being uprooted by placing boulders around the base to help keep the tree stable. The ground is not frozen so you could

best prevention for this is to apply Wilt Pruf to evergreens in the fall. If you are noticing it now, fertilize with organic Holly Tone.

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making a clean cut so not to tear the tree bark.

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Get your electronics ready • Make sure electronics have built-in surge protection or a battery-powered back-up system. Plug your electronics into surge suppressors for extra protection.

• Get a backup charging system for your phone, such as a handheld power bank. Keep it fully charged.

• Know how to operate the manual release on your garage door.

• Backup your computer to protect stored photos, contacts and documents.

Be prepared for anything

 STAYING SAFE IN THE DARK • Use flashlights, not candles, to reduce your risk of fire • Keep your fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Food can stay frozen for about 36 hours. Purchase bags of ice to keep food frozen longer.

• Turn off all plugged-in electronics and appliances, including your air conditioner, furnace, and water heater to avoid overloading circuits. Keep one lamp on so you’ll know when the power is back.

• Minimize cell phone use to preserve your battery as long as possible.

• Eat perishable items from your fridge and freezer first before moving to non-perishable items. Throw out any unsafe food.

congestion and a lack of traffic and street lights. But if you feel unsafe at home or need supplies, there are places you can go.

Check your local government website for your city’s emergency plan. Your area may have designated locations for shelter or supplies distribution. You should also note the location of the nearest warming and cooling shelters in case a power outage occurs during extreme heat or cold.

• Thursday, March 22, 2018

• Listen carefully to the weather and be ready for potential power outages during storms.

• Sign up for power outage alerts with your local power suppliers.

• Download the FEMA app to receive severe weather alerts for your region.

• Make a plan with your family beforehand.

Mobile networks can quickly become overwhelmed during a power outage, making it difficult to contact people.

• Understand your community’s emergency plan. You can usually find this on your city government’s website.

• If you or your loved one use a medical device that requires batteries or power, make you have a back up plan ready.

STORM PREPAREDNESS | SHAW MEDIA

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During a power outage, it’s generally advisable to minimize traveling outside your home.

Driving can be hazardous, with debris,

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SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

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Pump it up

In a flood, preparation is key to keeping your head above water

By AIMEE BARROWS Floods are the most frequent natural disasters in northern Illinois. In the past few years, communities in the area have experienced record flooding, causing millions of dollars in damage. But as spring approaches, homeowners should prepare their property for potential drenching rains, and protect it from the devastation a flood can cause.

Doug Saam, manager at Bulldog Plumbing in Batavia, explains that one of the most important thing residents can do is make sure their sump pump is less than seven years old. If it’s older than that, he says it’s time for a new one.

“It’s hard to tell if your sump pump is in good working order before a flood happens, which is why I recommend just replacing them every seven years,” he says.  Battery Backup systems are crucial. They can provide peace of mind because residents know that

if power goes out, the backup will continue to allow the sump pump to run. Some systems are now able to connect to home WiFi systems and can alert residents if the system kicks on. They should be replaced every four to five years.  Battery backups should be purchased from a plumbing company instead of a big-box store because most of the systems available at big-box stores contain a lead acid battery, compared with a no-maintenance gel battery from plumbing companies.  Dual-pump systems are recommended for homes located directly in a flood plain or for homes in extremely wet areas. The systems incorporate two pumps and a controller that alternates between them. If the water level gets high enough, both pumps will kick on.  Window wells should have drains in them to keep water from building up and leaking into the basement.  Fill cracks in basement concrete walls. Foundation companies can use epoxy to seal large cracks to prevent water from seeping in.  Make sure downspouts are away from foundation walls.

Winning the rain game While water can be the source of many problems for homeowners, there are ways that excess water can be used as an advantage.

Proper landscaping using native plants is a great way to absorb standing water, which is frequently caused by the soils being too compact so the water can’t seep through the spaces between soil particles, says Curtis Behrens, master naturalist through the University of Illinois Extension.  Native plants have longer, more robust root systems that will not only better absorb excess water, but they will beautify your landscape while attracting butterflies and birds.  Use rain barrels. Collecting rain in mosquito-proof containers is a great way to “water” your plants and lawns, or even to wash your car. Barrels come in all shapes and sizes, and some larger cisterns can be connected to water filtration systems for indoor plumbing use.  Install a rain garden filled with native plants on your property. They are often easy to create on many locations on land that is lower than the home. These low pockets will collect and absorb water, and they’re great for perimeter landscaping.

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As water rises, flood insurance can ease burden of Mother Nature’s wrath Homeowners who live in a flood plain should purchase a flood insurance policy, something most mortgage companies require. It’s important to understand the difference between flood insurance and backup of sewer and drain coverage, which can be added onto a homeowner’s insurance policy. The Federal Emergency Management Agency underwrites flood insurance policies, which are sold by FEMA-certified insurance agents. Flood insurance rates are determined by FEMA, and the cost of flood policies vary greatly.

“People think that if they get water in their basement, then that’s a flood,” he explains. “That’s not generally considered a flood and people should consider getting back-up of sewer and drain insurance. They do not necessarily need flood insurance. But homeowners who live in a flood plain absolutely need it.”

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 Homeowners can check www.fema.gov for maps of flood plains, or contact their municipalities to find out if their home is in a flood plain.

 Flood insurance generally just covers the structure of the home, and homeowners who want their personal property protected should buy separate coverage.  The cost of flood insurance varies, based on if the home is in a high-risk area, as well as the height of the basement walls as compared to flood level.

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According to Jeff Keicher, a State Farm agent in Sycamore, a flood is defined as “surface water that impacts more than one land parcel and isn’t normally there.” He says that in Illinois, many properties in flood plains are located near rivers, and that there is at least one major flooding event in northern Illinois every year.

 For homes that have finished basements but are not in a flood plain, backup of sewer and drain coverage should be purchased with the homeowner’s insurance policy to cover personal property from water resulting from a malfunctioning sump pump or battery backup system.

STORM PREPAREDNESS | SHAW MEDIA

Flood money

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TORNADO WATCHERS

SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

Take time to ready your home and family

By KELSEY O’CONNOR

During a natural disaster like a tornado, you don’t have time to stop and think about what to do. That’s why it’s crucial to have a plan. Having a proper emergency procedure in place can be the difference between chaos and calm – and sometimes, life and death.

Here’s what you need to know and do before a tornado strikes:

 PREPARING FOR A TORNADO

• Find a safe spot in your home where everyone can gather during a tornado, ideally a basement or storm cellar.

• Understand your community’s emergency response plan and the location of any shelters that may be in place during natural disasters.

• Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning.

• A tornado watch means a tornado is possible based on current weather conditions.

• A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted or is about to occur.

This is when you’ll need to take shelter.

-Continued on page 13

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 WHERE TO GO DURING A TORNADO -Continued from page 12

If you or a loved one may needs extra help during an emergency, give your information to your local government’s special needs registry. This allows local agencies to contact residents who may need assistance after a natural disaster.

 TIPS FOR PREPARING CHILDREN • Keep in mind that young children may need extra assistance and reassurance.

• Teach them to recognize the warning signs of a tornado, such as the sirens and weather alerts on your phone.

• Turn the drill into a game. Set a timer and see who can complete the drill the fastest. Not only will it make the activity more fun, it might help them remember what to do and not be as intimidated.

If you live in a high-rise building, go to a hallway in the center of the building. Head to the lowest floor if time permits. Stay away from any windows to avoid broken glass.

In a mobile home, go to the closest secured building. If the area has a designated tornado shelter, go there. Keep in mind that no mobile home is a safe place during a tornado, even ones that are tied down.

• Thursday, March 22, 2018

• Assemble an emergency kit and make sure it’s accessible from your designated gathering spot. This should include: - Water and non-perishable food items - First-aid supplies - Flashlights and batteries - A battery-powered radio - Multi-purpose tool - Sanitation and personal hygiene items

In the event of a tornado, the safest spot is generally a basement or storm cellar. If your home doesn’t have one, head to an interior, windowless room on the lowest floor of your home. This could be a hall closet, bathroom, or under a stairwell.

If you’re outside when a tornado hits, don’t try to outrun the storm. Seek shelter immediately in the most sturdy building you can find. If you can’t go indoors, avoid trees and cars that might blow into you during strong winds.

• Use the buddy system. If possible, pair each child up with an adult during drills, so they’ll have someone to keep them safe and calm during the real deal.

• Make sure your child understands that they need to go directly to the shelter, and an adult will take care of the rest. The last thing you want is a child running back upstairs for a toy or their pet fish.

• Open up the emergency kit and go through what’s inside.

Explain what each item does and show them how to use anything they might not recognize, like the battery-powered radio.

• Stash a few toys in your shelter area. This will keep kids occupied during long waits and keep their minds off the storm. Opt for nonelectronic toys like board games.

• If your children are old enough to stay home alone, make sure they know what do if you’re not there.

Point out safe spots near local parks and their friends’ houses as well, just in case they’re out around the neighborhood when bad weather strikes.

 RUNNING A TORNADO DRILL AT HOME

1

Create a detailed emergency plan.

Identify responsibilities for each member in your household. For example, who will be responsible for your pets? Who will perform a head count to make sure everyone has reached the gathering spot?

2

Make sure everyone understands the plan clearly and thoroughly.

Consider writing out your emergency plan and posting it somewhere visible to your family, such as inside a cupboard or cabinet door.

3

Run through the plan with your entire household. Set a time limit for how long it takes everyone to get to the gathering spot.

4

Get together after the drill and discuss how it went. What could have gone better? Is there anything you need to improve or update about the plan?

5

Practice your tornado drill at least once a year. A good rule of thumb is to practice every February, before tornado season begins.

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Weather is intensifying. The grid is overloaded.

Cyber-attacks are happening.

Your power is at risk.

SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

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MORE POWER? Q: What does a backup generator do?

A: A home backup generator can be a reliable source of power during an unexpected outage. These generators typically run on fuel and can keep your electronics and utilities running during a power outage.

essentials running, while others can power your entire home.

If you’re thinking about getting a generator for your home, talk with an electrician or engineer before purchasing and installing.

Q: Where should I install my generator?

A: It depends on your particular device and how much electricity your home requires. Typically, generator fuel tanks can hold enough to run for 24 to 72 hours.

A: Your generator should be outside your home, on stable ground, and nearby your current electrical system entrance. It should be protected from the elements when not in use to prevent damage and rust.

Q: What should I consider before buying a generator?

A: Every generator is different.

Make sure the device is equipped to provide the amount of power you think you’ll need during a blackout.

Some generators can keep just the

If you install a generator, you’ll also need to install carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your home and by bedrooms.

Q: What should I know about using a generator?

A: Always read the instructions carefully before operating the generator. Never run a generator inside a home or garage. Be sure to conserve generator use as much as possible, especially if you anticipate being without power for an extended period.

• Thursday, March 22, 2018

Q: How long will the generator last?

STORM PREPAREDNESS | SHAW MEDIA

What you need to know about a backup generator

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SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

| STORM PREPAREDNESS

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KNOW YOUR LOCAL STORM

Emergency Warning Systems An Emergency Outdoor Warning Siren System is an all-hazards siren system used to warn the general population of potential danger. During an emergency, the sirens may be activated for a set amount of time as determined by your community, typically for about five minutes.

What Do the Sirens Mean? Most systems use two siren tones.

Alert: A single tone signifying an emergency alert. This signal may be used to inform the community of an emergency or disaster, including a severe storm, tornado warning (not a tornado watch), earthquake, chemical hazard/hazardous material incident, extreme winds, or biological hazard.

Attack: An up-and-down, rising and falling tone to signify there is a homeland security or attack emergency. This signal would be used if community officials were notified by federal and/or state government officials of an actual or impending attack on the local community.

All Clear: Many communities do not use an All Clear signal. Tune in to your local news agencies and listen for notification from city officials regarding the emergency.

In Illinois, sirens are tested on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m.

The sirens are meant to be heard outside. As homes continue to become more energy efficient and sound proofing enhanced, outdoor warning sirens that once could be heard inside of a home can no longer be heard. That’s why other means of warning are in place.

What should you do if you hear the sirens?

If the sirens are activated - and it is not a monthly siren test the public should see it as a signal to: • Seek shelter • Tune in to radio or television to get information about

– type of emergency and

– instructions and recommendations; and

• Listen to your local media for indications that the emergency is over.

Note: The public should not call 9-1-1 unless they have an actual emergency.

Other resources include: ◆ National Weather Service www.weather.gov ◆ Ready Illinois www.ready.illinois.gov ◆ Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) www.ready.gov

Check your local village or city website for community specific procedures and notifications.

HAIL

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• Thursday, March 22, 2018

During times of severe weather the National Weather Service issues a Severe Thunderstorm Watch or Tornado Watch for a six hour period. The Weather Service may terminate a watch early if weather conditions change or the threat of severe weather no longer exists. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and Tornado Warnings are normally issued for a period of one hour. Warnings are usually allowed to expire on their own, without an early termination from the Weather Service.

For more information, or to hear an audio recording of the sirens, visit: www.illinois.gov

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STORM PREPAREDNESS | SHAW MEDIA

Siren Test Times

SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

| STORM PREPAREDNESS

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FAMILY TIP: WEAR SHOES Always wear shoes when a storm begins, even if you are at home.

“Many people can become stuck without shoes on their feet and because of all the rubble and glass, have to be carried out, whether or not they can walk. Now we tell our kids when they head down to the basement during a storm, to wear shoes.”

– Elizabeth Weaver Hug, Helping Hugs

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• Thursday, March 22, 2018

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STORM PREPAREDNESS | SHAW MEDIA

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SHAW MEDIA • Thursday, March 22, 2018

| STORM PREPAREDNESS

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