Ald. Reilly Alerts Citizens with City Storm Advisory

All of Chicagoland is expected to take part in a massive winter storm that is sweeping across the U.S., bringing with it record amounts of snow and ice as the bull's-eye is scheduled to pass right through Chicago and northwest Indiana.

Snow and ice could accumulate over a 2,000 mile stretch from Colorado to Maine, blanketing up to one-third of the U.S. with the powdery white stuff.

Ald. Reilly has released important information for the residents of the New Eastside in order to prepare successfully for this major event.

Winter Storm Advisory Tips and Important Information

311 and 911-- These call centers have additional staff available during the storm. For those who need shelter and heat, call 311. 311 also serves as a back-up for 911 in Chicago. For more on the city's 311 City Services, visit here . If you are calling outside the area for information, dial 312-744-5000.

The Department of Streets and Sanitation--DSS will be using their entire fleet of snow removal vehicles. Citizens, please be aware that the main focus will be snow and ice removal on arterial streets for the benefit of the public's safety. This will enable fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles passage.

Snow Removal--removal on side streets as well as garbage removal will take secondary priority to main arterial roadways.

The Chicago Fire Department--will have 50 snow mobiles to dispatch if necessary.

The Department of Aviation--has been alerted and prepped in case of stranded passengers who are grounded at the airport due to cancellation of flights. (If you have a scheduled flight or are expecting anyone in the Chicagoland area you should contact your airline or travel agent for flight advisories).

The Chicago Transit Authority--CTA will be running their normal schedule, however, know that the trains and buses could be very full.

Chicago Public Schools--CPS will not have early dismissal, however classes Wednesday may be canceled depending on the severity of this winter storm. For updates on school closings call 773-553-3030 or visit here.

Lakeshore Flood Watch--is in effect from Tuesday evening until Wednesday afternoon. The shores of Lake Michigan could be hit with 30-40 mile per hour winds, and gusts up to 60 miles per hour, quite possibly creating 14 to 18 foot waves with an occasional 25 foot wave intermittently.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications--is activating the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) starting at noon on today, Tuesday, February 1, 2011. The center will stay open as long as necessary and will be staffed with all key city departments.

The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS)--will operate three 24 hour centers, including North Area, Garfield, and King, from Wednesday morning at 7am until Thursday at 5pm. The city has over 4,000 beds in 60 shelters with the ability to add more beds as needed. The city wants everyone to know there is no reason for anyone to sleep outdoors during this storm! Call 311 for assistance or for transportation to one of these shelters.

Storm Watch--monitor reputable news sources for all your storm information such as the National Weather Service, as well as local TV and radio stations.

Weather Alerts--sign up to receive extreme weather alerts--go to www.AlertChicago.com or click here.

Shout Out--give a neighbor, shut-in, senior citizen, and friend a call to check up on them. If you are concerned about the safety or welfare of an individual and cannot make contact, call 311 and request a well-being check.

Tasks-run errands before the storm hits--keep your gas tank 1/2 full; make sure tires are properly inflated; make sure you have emergency supplies at home and in your car; purchase food, and don't forget to fill necessary medical prescriptions.

Snow Route System--keep cars off the arterial routes so that emergency vehicles can pass easily and safely.

Shoveling--never shovel snow into the street. Pile it on the parkway. Do not cover fire hydrants with shoveled snow.

Garbage Removal--clear snow off garbage tops to assist with removal.

The Chicago Department of Health--advises you stay indoors. Insulate your body if you go out. Wear layers of loose, warm clothing. Make sure to wear a scarf, gloves, hat, thick socks, warm coat, and winter boots. Keep extremities warm!

Ald. Reilly and all city officials want Chitown citizens to know they are doing everything possible to prepare for this winter storm.

For more information, you can read the Office of Emergency Management's press release, just go here.

Stay in, stay warm, and be safe Chicago!

Sources

ward42chicago.com, cityofchicago.org, foxnews.com, wgntv.com