Citizens urged to prepare for winter conditions

Staff Report

In preparation for the winter weather, the Rockford Fire Department is encouraging all Rockford residents to participate in Winter Weather Preparedness.

Although this winter season has been relatively mild and free of any remarkable winter storm activity, the winter storm that struck much of Illinois this past February reminds us that severe weather will likely impact us significantly at some point this winter.

Warnings are usually issued well ahead of advancing storms, but only have value if you anticipate the warnings and prepare for the expected conditions. As such, Rockford residents are strongly encouraged to prepare their homes, vehicles, and discuss with family members the potential effects of winter storms as well as learning about how to calmly and safely manage some of the winter season’s challenging conditions. Citizens are encouraged to utilize the Winter Storm Preparedness Guide found on the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) website at www.ready.illinois.gov or by calling (217) 785-9888.

For any other questions regarding Winter Weather Preparedness, contact Division Chief Joe Corl at (815) 987-5568.

From the Dec. 28, 2011-Jan. 3, 2012, issue