Winter Weather Preparedness Week, November 10-14, 2025
Effingham, Illinois — With winter weather already taking us by surprise this week, the City of Effingham is encouraging everyone in our community to take a few simple steps to stay safe, warm, and connected when wintry weather arrives.
Preparing ahead of time helps protect families, neighbors, and local services when snow, ice, or freezing temperatures hit. Winter Weather Preparedness Week is a great time to make your plan for future weather events.
Here are a few ways to get ready:
- Stock up on essentials — Make sure your household has food, water, medications, and warm clothing for at least a few days.
- Check in on neighbors — Older adults, people with disabilities, and those living alone may need a little extra help preparing for winter storms.
- Get your home and car ready — Test your heating system, insulate pipes, and keep emergency supplies in your vehicle.
- Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as food, water, flashlights, blankets, batteries, and necessary medications.
- Winterize homes and vehicles, including checking heating systems, insulating pipes, and ensuring vehicles are equipped with winter tires and emergency supplies.
- Exercise caution on the roads—slow down, allow extra travel time, and avoid driving in hazardous conditions when possible.
- Stay informed —tune in to trusted local stations for weather updates.
“Winter weather affects everyone differently, but when our community looks out for one another, we all stay safer,” said Larry Thies, City of Effingham Emergency Management Agency Coordinator. “A quick check-in with a neighbor or a little preparation today can make a big difference later.”
For tips and other resources, visit City of Effingham EMA and National Weather Service Winter Weather Preparedness Week.