Illinois Emergency Management Agency recommends planning ahead for severe weather

(KBSI) – March is Severe Weather Preparedness Month. Illinois averages 53 tornadoes per year, according to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA).

“From heavy snowfall to dangerous winds, everyone in Illinois should be prepared for adverse conditions,” said IEMA Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau in a news release to media. “Last week, Illinois saw multiple tornadoes throughout the state, followed by unseasonably-warm temperatures, and now we’re getting ready for snow and potential flooding.”

Illinois ranks fourth in the United States for the most tornadoes per square mile.

The most common natural hazard in the U.S. is flooding. One inch of water can cause $25,000 of damage in your home, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Severe weather preparedness includes gathering information and supplies to prepare for a loss of electricity or if you must evacuate from your neighborhood.

IEMA offers a Family Communications Plan to help people map locations to meet and track important contact information.

IEMA also recommends:

• Keep all important records and documents in a secure waterproof container
• Make an inventory of possessions using lists and photos/videos
• Insure your property and possessions
• Know how to shut off electricity, gas, and water
• Compile an emergency kit and “go bag” to help your family for at least three days during extended power outages or evacuations
• In case power is out, make sure flashlights with fresh batteries are ready
• Generators should only be run outside, never indoors or in enclosed space

Tap here to view a resource for planning that can be downloaded for free.