Winter Weather Tips

Winter weather can bring freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and hazardous travel conditions. Preparing in advance and taking simple precautions can help reduce the risk of injury, property damage, and service disruptions during cold weather.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and take preventative steps before severe winter conditions occur.

Staying Warm and Safe

• Dress in layers and limit time outdoors during extreme cold.
• Wear hats, gloves, and insulated footwear to reduce the risk of frostbite.
• Check on elderly neighbors, individuals with disabilities, and those without reliable heat.
• Never use ovens, grills, or outdoor heaters to heat indoor spaces.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

• Insulate exposed pipes, especially those in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls.
• During extreme cold, allow faucets to drip slightly to keep water moving.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
• Know where your main water shutoff valve is located in case a pipe freezes or bursts.

Winterizing Your Home

• Seal drafts around windows and doors using weatherstripping or caulk.
• Ensure heating systems are serviced and operating safely.
• Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials and turn them off when unattended.
• Replace furnace filters regularly to maintain heating efficiency.

Travel and Outdoor Safety

• Avoid unnecessary travel during snow and ice events.
• Allow extra time and reduce speed when driving in winter conditions.
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with blankets, water, and basic supplies.
• Clear sidewalks and driveways promptly to reduce slip hazards.

Pet Safety in Cold Weather

• Bring pets indoors when possible
• Provide dry shelter and fresh, unfrozen water
• Limit time outdoors during extreme cold
• Protect paws from ice and salt

Stay Informed

During winter weather events, timely information is important. Emergency notifications and weather-related updates are most reliably shared through Nixle alerts and by local emergency management agencies.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for Nixle to receive emergency and weather-related notifications, and to follow:

• Mt. Vernon Emergency Management Agency (EMA)
• Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency (EMA)

Residents may also monitor local news and radio stations for weather updates, road conditions, and emergency announcements during winter weather events.

The City of Mt. Vernon may share updates when available, but Nixle and local EMA communications are the primary sources for critical and time-sensitive information.

Additional winter weather safety information is available through trusted partners such as the National Weather Service, Ready Illinois, and the American Red Cross.