As we watch for several rounds of potential winter storms, here are a few items to keep in mind.
- Emergency Warming Centers: There are several designated warming centers throughout Lake County – including Hawthorn Mall, during regular business hours. It is suggested to call each site to confirm.
- Street Parking: Please keep vehicles and garbage bins off the street during and after a snow of at least 2 inches to allow roads to be effectively cleared. Vehicles left on the streets may end up with a ticket. Learn more about the ordinance by visiting the VHPD's Overnight Parking Permit webpage.
- Shoveling: Consider shoveling snow to the right side of the end of your driveway so that plows have less to push into your driveway as they head down the street. Our plow drivers do their best, but it has to go somewhere. Also, please do not throw snow out into the street. This is to your benefit as if it ices down out there you will likely have a very slippery area to deal with until everything thaws out.
- Check Your Neighbors: If we do get a big storm, please consider checking in on neighbors, especially those who may have less ability to clear snow or navigate slippery walks. Thanks for being good neighbors.
- Clear the Hydrants: Countryside Fire asks that we keep our neighborhood fire hydrants cleared, to assist in speedy emergency response. People who adopt a hydrant can even earn a certificate. Learn more by visiting the CFPD website.
- Reach Out for Help: If you need support – during this storm or at any time – please check the Village's Health & Human Services webpage listing a variety of resources. One extremely helpful website is 211 Lake County (visit online, dial 211, or text your zip code to 898211).
- House Watch: If you will be out of town, consider a Vacation House Watch, provided by the Vernon Hills Police Department.
- Emergency Messages: Sign up for the Village's reverse 911 emergency message system, called Blackboard Connect. This system is used only for emergency or timely messages targeted to specific neighborhoods.