With temperatures forecasted to drop significantly this week, DuPage County is urging residents to be prepared for weather-related situations that may result from inclement weather.

The county encourages residents to develop a plan for their families at home, work, school, and when outdoors.

Residents are urged to identify a safe place to take shelter and keep a highway map nearby to follow storm movement from weather bulletins.

National Weather Service watches and warnings are available on the Internet, and residents should listen to radio and television for weather information.

Check the weather forecast before leaving for extended periods outdoors. Watch for signs of approaching storms. If severe weather threatens, check on people who are elderly, very young, or physically or mentally disabled.

In order to prevent the freezing of water supply lines and pipes, residents should drain water from swimming pools and water sprinkler supply lines by following manufacturer or installer directions.

Remove, drain and store hoses used outdoors. Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located and are in unheated areas like the basement, crawl space, attic, garage and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.

It is important to keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you can prevent a costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst. If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees.

Residents should plan travel and check the latest weather reports to avoid winter storms.
Also, residents are encouraged to make sure that they have items like a cell phone with charger, flashlight, first-aid kit, shovel, windshield scraper and brush, tool kit, booster cables, a compass and road maps, blankets and extra dry clothing in the event they are snowed under.

During the winter months, residents should try to keep the gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. Also, they should avoid traveling alone, and let someone know their travel schedules and routes.

Residents should also keep their pets inside whenever possible. If pets must be taken outdoors, be sure to have them fitted with the proper identification. Never leave dogs or cats alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.