Storm Four-Knowledge: The 4 Critical Steps to Prepare for Disasters in Chicago

Every Season in Chicagoland Brings Storm Risks — Are You Ready?

Life in Chicago means preparing for extremes: thunderstorms, flash floods, blizzards, and even the occasional tornado. Yet most homeowners and business owners aren’t truly prepared for a disaster—until it’s too late.

At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we’ve seen the cost of inaction firsthand. From flooded basements in Wilmette to downed trees in River Forest, disasters don’t wait for you to get organized. That’s why we’re sharing FEMA’s four core pillars of storm preparedness—reimagined for the realities of Chicagoland.

1. Get Informed

Storm prep starts with knowing what to expect in your local area.

• Sign up for emergency alerts via Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management
• Bookmark the National Weather Service - Chicago Forecast Office
• Keep a NOAA Weather Radio on hand for up-to-the-minute alerts
• Follow your local Red Cross chapter for shelter and safety guidance

Neighborhoods like Albany Park, Cicero, Evanston, and Highland Park have all experienced flood-related damage in the last 5 years. Getting timely alerts can make the difference between safe evacuation and being caught off guard.

2. Make a Family Emergency Plan

When a storm hits, communication becomes critical. Your family should know:

• Where to meet if separated
• Who your emergency out-of-town contact is
• How and when to shut off water, gas, and electricity
• Where your fire extinguishers, go-bags, and first-aid kits are located
• Which neighbors might need assistance (elderly, disabled, etc.)

Be sure everyone—including children—knows how to dial 911 and how to contact your insurance company and ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons.

3. Assemble an Emergency Kit

Your kit should contain enough supplies to last your household at least 72 hours without power or water.

Recommended items include:

• One gallon of water per person per day
• Non-perishable food for 3 days
• Manual can opener
• Flashlight and batteries
• Portable phone chargers
• First aid supplies
• Pet food and baby supplies (if needed)
• Copies of IDs, insurance policies, and contact lists
• Cash (ATMs may be down)

For a full list, visit RedCross.org.

4. Maintain and Practice Your Plan

Every 6 months:

• Review your emergency plan with your household
• Update your contact info and evacuation routes
• Test fire extinguishers and smoke detectors
• Replace expired food, water, batteries, and meds
• Conduct a practice drill with your family

Preparedness is not a one-time event. Repetition builds confidence—and keeps everyone safer.

Why Storm Planning is Worth It

Alan Lakein once wrote: "Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now."

The time to prepare isn’t when the sirens are going off—it’s now.

If a storm does damage your property, ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is standing by 24/7 to help restore your home or business.

Our Emergency Restoration Services:

• Water & Flood Damage Cleanup
• Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Specialty Cleaning Services

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of storms cause the most damage in the Chicago area?
Flash floods, heavy snowstorms, ice storms, and summer severe thunderstorms are the leading causes of storm-related property damage in Chicagoland.

2. How often should I update my storm preparedness plan?
You should review and update your plan every 6 months. Replace expired supplies and recheck emergency contact info.

3. Should renters have a preparedness plan too?
Absolutely. Renters may not be responsible for property damage, but they’re still vulnerable to loss of possessions and personal safety concerns.

4. Can ServiceMaster help with storm damage insurance claims?
Yes. We provide detailed documentation and direct communication with insurance carriers to help speed up your claim process.

5. What if I can’t afford a full emergency kit right now?
Start small: water, flashlight, batteries, and non-perishable food. Build your kit gradually as your budget allows.

6. Does ServiceMaster provide emergency services during a storm?
Yes. Our teams are equipped to respond 24/7, even during active weather events. Safety is always our top priority.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

With over 40 years of local experience, ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is Chicagoland’s trusted leader in disaster restoration. We’re IICRC Certified, RIA Members, MBE/WBE Certified, and led by Sam Simon (IICRC Master Fire & Water Restorer) and CEO Nasutsa Mabwa.

We serve:

• Chicago (West Loop, Bronzeville, Lakeview, Wicker Park)
• North Shore (Wilmette, Evanston, Glencoe, Highland Park)
• Lake County (Lake Forest, Bannockburn, Deerfield)
• DuPage County (Elmhurst, Oak Brook, Downers Grove)

We’re also the authors of RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset.

For 24/7 help, visit servicemaster-restorationbysimons.com or call (773) 376-1110.