The massive winter storm that swept through the Fox Valley this past weekend has left St. Charles and the surrounding area with more than just a picturesque landscape. Between the record-breaking low temperatures and blowing snow, the aftermath of a storm like this poses unique risks for our local seniors.
At Homewatch CareGivers of St. Charles, 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.
Dealing with Black Ice
While the city plows are hard at work, the extreme temperature fluctuations in the Fox River Valley often lead to black ice. This thin, transparent layer of ice is nearly impossible to see, especially on shaded driveways, parking lots of grocery stores, and downtown St. Charles.
- Caution Areas: Exercise extra caution when walking in shady areas, freshly plowed roads and sidewalks, and over bridges which are all more likely to contain black ice.
- Early Morning: Be especially careful in the mornings when temperatures are lowest, and save your outings until after noon, if you must go out.
- Penguin Walk: If you must head out, use the "Penguin Walk"—small, shuffled steps with your center of gravity over your front leg.
- Safety First: Keep a small container of salt right inside your front door so you can treat the step before you walk on it.
Leave the Shoveling to Others
The snow from this storm was particularly heavy. For seniors, shoveling isn't just a chore; it’s a significant cardiovascular risk. The combination of cold air (which constricts blood vessels) and the physical strain of lifting heavy snow can trigger heart attacks.
- The Rule: If you are over 65 or have a history of heart issues, please do not shovel.
- Community Support: Reach out to local church or community youth groups to see if volunteer lists are available for snow removal. It is much 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 or if you experienced a power flicker. If your home isn't holding heat, please utilize one of our local Kane County warming stations:
- St. Charles Police Department: 1515 W. Main Street (Open 24/7 for emergencies).
- Aurora Public Library: 101 S. River St. Phone: 630-264-4117
- Pottawatomie Community Center: 8 North Avenue.
- Fox River Valley Public Library (East Dundee): 555 Barrington Avenue, East Dundee Phone: 847-428-3661
Note: Before heading out, it is always best to call 2-1-1 (the Kane County social services hotline) to confirm current capacity and hours for these locations.
Check-In on Your Neighbors
At Homewatch CareGivers, we aim to eliminate the "three plagues" of aging: loneliness, helplessness, and boredom. A major storm can heighten these feelings. A quick phone call or stopping by the door of elderly neighbor near Mt. Saint Mary Park or the historic downtown can provide vital social connection and ensure they have the medications and food they need.
How Homewatch CareGivers of St. Charles Can Help
Recovery from a major storm doesn't have to be a solo effort. Our professional caregivers are available to help seniors in St. Charles, Geneva, and East Dundee with:
- Safely navigating walkways for medical appointments.
- Light housekeeping and meal preparation when it’s too cold to go out.
- Providing companionship and monitoring for signs of hypothermia or "cabin fever."
To learn more about our services or to talk with us about how we can help please give us a call at: (331) 222-7785 or visit our website.