As winter weather approaches, Illinois residents are reminded to prepare for the possibility of snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. This week marks National Winter Weather Preparedness Week, a timely opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to plan ahead for the challenges the season can bring.  The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is partnering with the National Weather Service (NWS) to urge everyone to take simple, proactive steps now to stay safe and reduce the risks posed by severe winter weather. Throughout the week, IEMA-OHS and the NWS will highlight key winter weather topics:

• Thursday: Home Safety and Preparedness – Winterizing your home, power outages, and snow removal

• Friday: Winter Headlines – Understanding blizzards and forecast challenges

For more information on winter weather risks and how to prepare in Illinois, visit Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS), www.Ready.Illinois.Gov