Today is the first day of winter and what a forecast we have! Snow is forecasted to arrive on Thursday with possible wind gusts up to 55 mph. Dangerously cold temperatures as low as 25 to 30 below zero are likely on Thursday night and Friday, according to the weather service.

The motoring public is asked to stay off the roadways for the next couple of days during the expected severe winter weather and to travel only if it is absolutely necessary.

Remember, Village roadway concerns should be reported to QuadCom Police Dispatch at 847-428-8784.

Report power outages directly to Comed by:

• texting OUT to 26633
• calling 800-EDISON-1 (800-334-7661)
• online at Report An Outage

Keep these tips in mind during the winter driving season:

SNOW PLOW SAFETY:

❄  Maintain a safe distance from the plow.  Give them room to do their job and stay behind the plow far enough so the driver can see you.

❄ Slow down when you see a plow. Plows travel at a slower speed.

❄ Do not pass a plow on the right. Plows push snow to the right shoulder. Some have a wing plow, a 6-8 foot extension on the right side that can damage a passing car.

❄ Plows spread salt and deicing agents.  Another reason to maintain a safe distance between your car and the snowplow:  so your car doesn’t get sprayed.

❄ Do not pass in a snow cloud.  Be sure the road ahead is clear of vehicles or snowdrifts.  A snow cloud is sometimes caused by crosswinds or by the snowplow. 

The Illinois State Police have posted some recommendations for preparing your vehicle and yourself for each trip as we approach the winter driving season:

• Make sure your windshield wipers are not worn and be sure to check all of the vehicle’s fluid levels.

• Check to make sure your tires are properly inflated and that they have sufficient tread.

• Always keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full. If you get stranded, you want to be sure you have enough gas to keep your vehicle running to stay warm.

• Dress warmly for the weather—dress in layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in anticipation of unexpected winter weather emergencies.

• Always carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food, water, and a first aid kit.

• Make sure someone is aware of your travel route.

• Always carry a cell phone and charger.

We hope you’re never in an emergency situation, but it is by far better to be prepared in case!