With the winter months fast approaching, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Homeland Security are offering readiness tips during Winter Weather Preparedness Week that is occurring this week. Alicia Tate-Nadeau, director of the IEMA-OHS says that winter storms can arrive quickly and without warning and being prepared helps ensure the safety of families throughout the season. 

Readiness for winter is not just for comfort but for safety and resilience.  As temperatures drop, its important that residents be equipped for everything. According to IEMA, each winter nearly 29,0000 vehicles crash in Illinois, producing over 4,500 injuries and 80 fatalities. 

Residents are encouraged to keep a winter storm kit in their vehicles to be prepared with items including chargers for your cell phone, blankets or sleeping bags, extra clothing, jumper cables, flashlight, extra batteries, extra water, and high-calorie, non perishable food. For more information about travel preparedness, visit https://gettingaroundillinois.com.