The Village of Orland Park is preparing for dangerously cold conditions. Forecasts call for single-digit temperatures from Thursday night through Sunday morning, with wind chills making it feel as cold as -30 degrees.
“The safety and well-being of our residents is our top priority,” said Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge. “We urge everyone to take this cold weather seriously, limit outdoor exposure whenever possible and look out for neighbors who may need assistance.”
The Orland Park Police Station, located at 15100 S. Ravinia Avenue is the village’s main warming center.
“The extreme temperatures bring an increased risk for cold-related health issues. Those who need a place to escape the cold should come to the police station and, if necessary, we can open other Village buildings,” said Orland Park Police Chief Eric Rossi. “If someone you know needs help, please call and let us know.”
The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers valuable winter weather preparedness tips that residents are recommended to follow:
- Limit your time outside. Prolonged exposure to low temperatures and high winds can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. If you need to go outside, wear several layers of warm clothing.
- Check on elderly and disabled relatives, friends and neighbors who may be more at risk of extreme cold.
- Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
- Create an emergency supply kit in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights. Don’t forget about pets.
- Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full. Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, stay inside.
Residents are encouraged to check the village’s website for updates and can also visit Village of Orland Park and the Orland Park Police Department Facebook pages for announcements during this weather event.
Officials of the Orland Fire Protection District cautioned homeowners on using alternative sources of heat for their homes, warning they could easily cause fires.
With the cost of heating a home rising, many homeowners have turned to alternative sources for warmth that go beyond simply using their fireplaces more often. They are buying wood burning stoves, kerosene heaters and electrical and gas space heaters.
Fire Chief Kevin Doyle said portable heaters can easily be misused and cause fires.
“If there is a problem regarding heating, homeowners should immediately contact an HVAC professional to ensure their homes are being heated properly,” Doyle said.
“Alternative portable heating devices can be used on a temporary basis as long as they are constantly monitored, but they should never be used as the alternative to home heating.”
Doyle cautioned the public on using other alternative heat sources, such as their gas ovens and gas stoves.
Some of the alternatives are popular and acceptable, but they also are a part of rising incidents in residential fires.
Before using any alternative heating source, make sure they are legal. Many municipalities prohibit the use of kerosene heaters, for example.
The following fire safety tips offered by the Orland Fire Protection District can help the public maintain a fire safe home this winter.
- Have your heater checked to ensure it is burning fuel efficiently and safely.
- Never use fuel burning appliances without proper room venting. Burning fuel (coal, kerosene, or propane, for example) can produce deadly fumes.
- Use ONLY the fuel recommended by the heater manufacturer.
- NEVER introduce a fuel into a unit not designed for that type of fuel.
- NEVER close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace.
- Have the chimney inspected annually and cleaned if necessary, especially if it has not been used for some time.