The massive winter storm that swept through Lake County this past weekend has left us with more than just a picturesque landscape. Between the record-breaking wind chills and the heavy accumulation, the aftermath of a storm like this poses unique risks for our local seniors in Libertyville and the surrounding communities.
At Homewatch CareGivers of Libertyville, our priority is ensuring that our neighbors remain safe, warm, and healthy as the cleanup begins. Here is what you and your family need to know to navigate the next few days safely.
Beware the "Invisible" Slip: Dealing with Black Ice
Anyone who has lived in the Libertyville area for long is familiar with black ice, but the extremely fast drop in temperatures this week has exacerbated the risk. Whether you are walking to your car or simply getting groceries, black ice is a major hazard.
- Exercise extra caution: Be wary in shady areas, over bridges, and even on freshly plowed sidewalks which are more likely to contain a thin, frozen layer.
- The "Penguin Walk": If you must head out, use small, shuffled steps with your center of gravity over your front leg.
- Treat the threshold: Keep a small container of salt just inside your front door so you can treat the step before you walk on it.
Leave the Shoveling to Others
While total accumulation varied across Lake County, we received significant snow everywhere. For seniors, shoveling isn’t just a chore; it’s a major cardiovascular risk. Cold air constricts blood vessels, and the physical strain of lifting heavy snow can trigger heart attacks.
- Protect Yourself: If you are over 65 or have a history of heart issues, please do not shovel.
- Community Support: Reach out to local church groups or the Libertyville Civic Center Senior Center at (847) 247-7659 to see if volunteer lists are available for snow removal. It is always better to wait for help than to risk a medical emergency.
Local Warming Stations
With wind chills reaching dangerous levels, keeping a home consistently warm can be a struggle, especially if your furnace is working overtime. If your home isn't holding heat, please utilize one of our local warming stations:
- Libertyville Township: 359 Merrill Court, Libertyville, IL 60048 | (847) 816-6800.
- Libertyville Train Station: 200 West Lake Street, Libertyville, IL 60048.
- Barrington Train Station: 201 Spring St, Barrington, Illinois, 60010
- Lindenhurst Village Hall: 2301 E Sand Lake Rd, Lindenhurst, Illinois, 60046
- Additional Resources: You can call 2-1-1 Lake County at any time to find the nearest warming center with current capacity. Or visit the Lake County website here.
Check-In on Your Neighbors
At Homewatch CareGivers, we aims to eliminate the three plagues of aging: loneliness, helplessness, and boredom. A major storm can heighten these feelings. A quick phone call or stop at the door of an elderly neighbor can provide vital social connection and ensure they have the medications and food they need for the next few days.
How Homewatch CareGivers of Libertyville Can Help
Recovery from a major storm doesn't have to be a solo effort. Our professional caregivers serve Libertyville, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Lake Zurich, and the surrounding areas, providing:
- Safe Transportation: Navigating icy roads for medical appointments.
- Personal Care: Assistance with daily tasks when mobility is limited by weather.
- Companionship: Combatting the isolation that often follows a winter storm.
To learn more about our services or to talk with us about how we can help please give us a call at: (847) 701-6385 or visit our website.