Sherman Emergency Management Agency

09/26/2023

CELL PHONE ALERT (TEST) COMING TO YOU FROM FEMA

At 2:20 p.m. on October 4th, the federal government will test its nationwide Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts.

The purpose is to ensure that the systems continue to be an effective means of warning the public about national emergencies.
All wireless phones should receive the message only once. People with cell phones will get a message that reads: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” Phones with the main menu set to Spanish will display: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”

To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration. FEMA and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are coordinating with Emergency Alert System participants, wireless providers, emergency managers and other stakeholders in preparation for this national test to minimize confusion and to maximize the public safety value of the test.

08/23/2023

Phew – it’s hot!

With the sweltering heat and hotter temperatures, consider reducing your energy consumption is critical. Here are some tips that may help:

- Avoid using appliances during the day (like oven, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer)
- Only do full loads of laundry and dishes. Consider using cool settings.
- Consider using a clothesline to dry your clothes outside.
- Keep shades and curtains drawn.
- Take short, cool showers.
- Turn off all unnecessary electronics.
- Use all window coverings.
- Monitor the thermostat and household temperatures and raise your thermostat to 78 degrees F or higher. (each degree of extra cooling will increase energy usage 6%-8%).
- Programmable thermostats can save a about $100 per year.
- Consider turning your AC system to 80 or higher when you are not at home for extended periods of time.
- Clear all ducts and vents to maximize cool air.
- Close doors of rooms that are not in use.
- Change your HVAC filters regularly.
- Your ceiling fans should run counterclockwise to help circulate cool air.

08/22/2023

EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING issued through Friday by the National Weather Service.

Recommended Actions One Can Take:
• Take frequent breaks indoors or in the shade.
• Hydrate often
• Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles.
• Find a cooling center in your community to utilize.
• Watch for signs of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Cancel unnecessary sporting events or outside events

Signs of a Heat Stroke (most dangerous so Call 9-1-1):
• Extremely high body temperature
• Red, hot and dry skin with no sweat
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness

Signs of Heat Cramp:
• Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs

Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
• Heavy sweating
• Paleness
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Fast or Weak Pulse
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fainting
• Nausea
• Vomiting

08/20/2023

We are sure you are aware that the National Weather Service has issued a Heat Warning for our area. Stay Cool and Hydrated!

08/18/2023

We thought you should be provided Air Quality and Excessive Heat information that could affect your health or those that are vulnerable. This information is provided by the National Weather Service.

AIR QUALITY FORECAST - high pressure will settle over the Midwest today. While bringing pleasantly cool weather, it will also draw some wildfire smoke. Air quality is forecast to be “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” today northwest of a Quincy to Chicago line. Sangamon County is forecast to be considered “Moderate” which means members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. Attached is a map of the state of Illinois highlighted in the different colors to represent the air quality in that specific region. Also attached is a graph of the different air quality levels with their meaning. Something to be aware of as summer is winding down and there are a lot of outside events still going on, including the Illinois State Fair.

EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH (this Sunday through Wednesday) - The National Weather Service is putting an Excessive Heath Watch in effect for the state for this coming Sunday through Wednesday.
• A prolonged period of highs in the 90s is likely much of next week. Heat index values of 100+ degrees are expected Sunday (western Illinois) as well as Monday-Wednesday, though potential after mid-week is more uncertain at this time.
• An Excessive Heat Watch is in effect for the western half of the state for Sunday through Wednesday. Other areas to the east and southeast will likely be added later.
• Attached is an image of the map where the National Weather Service is projecting the watch to be throughout the state.

REMEMBER BE INFORMED – BE SAFE

08/06/2023

Heads up for the potential of severe storms this evening. Stay Safe - Stay Aware.

07/25/2023

Sherman Emergency Management Agency is pleased to announce that the National Weather Service StormReady Community designation has been renewed for another 4 years. The Village of Sherman was the first community in Sangamon County to receive this designation in 2010 and must every 4 years prove it meets the National Weather Service criteria.

07/14/2023

Partnerships are important and we are happy to assist in any way we can.

In partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration, we opened a Center in Sherman . This center will provide an in-person opportunity for businesses to apply to the SBA’s Economic Injury Loans (EIDL) who lost revenue from previous severe weather.

Location: 401 St. John Drive (Sherman)
Hours: Monday to Friday 9a-6p and Saturday 10a-4p

07/13/2023

The Sherman Outdoor Siren System is back in service!

Remember the system is meant for warning you when you are outside. Always have alternate ways to receive alerts in your home and place of work. With this in mind, we recommend the following:

* Have a Weather Radio that is activated by the National Weather Service when there is a Watch or Warning issued for different weather conditions.
* Have a battery powered radio available and ready to be tuned to a local radio station to receive weather information and warnings.
* Use your phone for weather apps (many are free) and be sure to set up your alerts on the app.
* Use your tv or computer to monitor weather conditions. Please be sure you are tuned in to a local station to receive local reports.

Please do not hesitate to contact the Village should you have any questions. We are available at 217-496-2621 or via email at [email protected].

07/10/2023

SBA Business Resource Center

The SBA Business Resource Center will be open in Sherman Village Hall, 401 St. John Drive in Sherman starting July 12th at 11am. Please go to the Village Website for specific information at www.shermanil.org.

SBA’s mission team stands ready to help Illinois small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small aquaculture businesses, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by the March 31 severe storms in Illinois. For eligible applicants, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster.

Interest rates are 4 percent for businesses and 2.375 percent for nonprofit organizations, with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

07/05/2023

For Immediate Release - Please be advised, due to a power surge, the Sherman Outdoor Siren System was knocked out of service. While every effort is being taken to quickly remedy this matter, it will take several days to get fixed.

With this in mind, we recommend the following:
• Have a Weather Radio that is activated by the National Weather Service when there is a Watch or Warning issued for different weather conditions.
• Have a battery powered radio available and ready to be tuned to a local radio station to receive weather information and warnings.
• Use your phone for weather apps (many are free) and be sure to set up your alerts on the app.
• Use your tv or computer to monitor weather conditions. Please be sure you are tuned in to a local station to receive local reports.
• Let your neighbors and friends know of this situation as not everyone uses social media or hears the news.

As you can tell, mother nature has not been kind to us in many instances. As soon as the system is back in operation, we will send out appropriate notices.

We apologize for this inconvenience. Please do not hesitate to contact the Village should you have any questions. We are available at 217-496-2621 or via email at [email protected].

06/28/2023

In case your were not aware, our air quality right now is not the best due to smoke from Canadian forest fires and our hot weather conditions. An "Air Quality Alert" is ongoing in Illinois and across other states.

Air quality continues to worsen into Wednesday afternoon, with the Air Quality Index now listed as “Hazardous” for parts of Central Illinois.

Air quality like we are experiencing is going to cause health issues potentially for many people. We highly recommend to stay indoors, close windows and use your air conditioning.

It is expected that air quality will eventually start to improve heading into Wednesday Night and Thursday morning.

Link: https://www.wcia.com/news/hazardous-air-quality-now-declared-decatur-reports-2nd-worst-air-quality-in-the-world/

04/04/2023

Despite our best efforts to switch the system off it still performed the monthly test. We highly apologize for that. I hope it did not disrupt your day to much. Very sad on our end for that.

04/04/2023

We will not be performing the First Tuesday of the Month Siren Test today. We do not need to add to your stress right. BUT do be prepared for additional storms coming in this afternoon and early in the morning from 2am to 10am. The NWS has indicated a similar storm pattern as we had on the night (the 31st) the tornado hit us.

04/01/2023

Sherman EMA had activated Friday afternoon due to the storm threat. Sorry to indicate a tornado did touch down with damage to homes. No deaths or injuries that we know of thank goodness. Tomorrow starts the road to recovery for some folks. Thanking many for their mutual aid support and for our wonderful first responders, public works crews and laborers. When the dust settles a more proper thank you to be said. Law enforcement has the site secured. The public is asked to stay out of the area while we conduct operations tonight and tomorrow.

03/31/2023

Latest info from the National Weather Service (NWS). This is a very unusual event. Level 4 and 5 are scarcely used by NWS. Note on the map how close the Level 5 area is. Please implement actions to be prepared; supplies ready and safe places assigned. Because this is a fast-moving storm there will be limited reaction times. Timeline is for initial storms tonight starting possibly around 6:00pm. I see on the radar Quincy is already getting hit. There seems to be a lot of lighting with the storms. Winds could gust to 75mph or greater.

03/31/2023

The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for our area. They have also increased the risk for severe weather for us from a Level 3 to a Level 4. The max is a Level 5 which is rarely issued. This is a serious storm that will move into our area quickly as well as out quickly. Estimates put it traveling at 65mph arriving around 6pm and out by 8pm. Winds will be intense possibly over 70mph. We also suggest you bring inside or secure your outside items. Please have a plan for a safe place and that everyone is aware of the situation. Listen to your weather radio or TV/radio for the latest.

03/30/2023

Significant weather event is expected Friday evening. Possibility of tornadoes and hail. Expect very high winds over 60mph and the possibility of power failures. Make sure your phone is fully charged, flashlights close by and where your safe place is. The storms will arrive in the Sherman area around 6-7pm and should be done by 8pm or so.

03/14/2023

March is Severe Weather Preparedness Month: Illinois averages 53 tornadoes per year, which means you should grab your dog Toto and be prepared for tornadoes and severe weather. March is Severe Weather Preparedness Month and a good time to plan ahead, especially with the severe weather here in Illinois. Illinois ranks fourth in the United States for the most tornadoes per square mile.

Press Release from IEMA go to: https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.26144.html #:~:text=Springfield%20%2DIllinois%20averages%2053%20tornadoes,severe%20weather%20here%20in%20Illinois.

03/09/2023

1. Make a Go Kit for home, auto and work.
2. Have a Communications Plan.
3. Stay Informed, have a NOAA Weather Radio.

01/24/2023

Tomorrow morning will bring heavy wet snow to our area. Please be careful and give yourself extra time if you are commuting.

12/21/2022

The National Weather Service in Lincoln has issued a Winter Storm Warning. Detailed information can be found on their Weather Story website page at https://www.weather.gov/ilx/weatherstory. Go to https://www.shermanil.org main page news story for the Winter Weather Preparedness Guide available as a downloadable file.

12/20/2022

Please be prepared for this potentially dangerous storm of both snow and artic cold temperatures.

11/22/2022

It's Turkey Time. Stay Safe out there and have a wonderful holiday.

11/05/2022

It is never to early to have Winter Weather Safety tips:

Make sure your home Emergency Kit is stocked and winter storm ready. See brochure of what to have in your kit athttps://www.weather.gov/media/ilx/Outreach/IHS_Disaster_Kit.pdf .

Use sand to improve traction and apply products that melt ice on
walkways

Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel. Regular fuel sources
may be cut off

Keep emergency heating equipment and fuel so you can keep at
least one room of your house warm enough to be livable

Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your family knows
how to use them.

Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply. Insulate
walls, attics, doors, and windows.

Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic.

Do not overexert yourself or work outside for extended periods of time.

08/23/2022

Back-to-School Is Time to Review Emergency Preparedness Plans

As millions of children and college students go back to school this month, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) recommends that all families review their own emergency preparedness plans and school safety plans. Whether your children are in school, on a bus, at music practice, or with their traveling sports league teams, planning and shared information is critical. “Severe weather and other emergencies can happen at any time,” said IEMA Deputy Director Scott Swinford. “Parents should especially discuss with their children where to go for shelter, who to communicate with, and how to communicate with them during an emergency.”

Here are some tips to better prepare for the upcoming school year:

* Teach children with cell phones about “Text First, Talk Later.” The “IM OK” text message gets through phone congestion easier than phone calls do.
* Explain the basics of weather preparedness for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, fire evacuation, flash flooding, etc.
* Make a family communications plan.
* Update your emergency contact information on file at your child’s school.
* Consider adding a relative or trusted friend to the school’s information file as they may have to pick your kids up during an emergency.
* Fill out a backpack emergency card for your student’s backpack and your wallet.
* Learn more about school plans for disaster or emergency reunification.
* Encourage young students to take emergency drills seriously and ask questions to help them remember what to do.
* Encourage any college student to make a disaster preparedness kit.
* Speak to college students about ensuring that they are signed up for weather alerts and opt-in alert warning services at college.
* Download and discuss the free “Safe2Help” Illinois helpline and app.

More tips can be found on the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) READY ILLINOIS (www.Ready.Illinois.gov) Website.

08/05/2022

NEW HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM CDT SATURDAY THE 6TH OF AUGUST...

* WHAT...Heat index values around 105 expected.

* WHERE...Portions of central and west central Illinois.

* WHEN...From noon to 8 PM CDT Saturday.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat
illnesses to occur.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

08/02/2022

National Weather Service announces
..HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 7 PM CDT WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Heat index values of 104 to 108 expected Wednesday
afternoon.

* WHERE...Portions of central, east central, southeast and west
central Illinois.

* WHEN...From noon to 7 PM CDT Wednesday.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat
illnesses to occur.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances. Take extra precautions if you work or
spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities
to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat
exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting
clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends
scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned
environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

08/02/2022

Outdoor sirens will be tested this morning at 10am.

08/01/2022

Passing the word on...

Albeit a topic of recent discussion, residents should be aware that golf carts are not authorized for street use in Sherman. Officers have issued warnings in recent weeks for driving upon village streets, unlicensed drivers (under 16), and unrestrained passengers (no seat belt or unrestrained children). As always, police prefer compliance over enforcement measures as citations are expensive and require court action. Please help spread the word.

07/04/2022

You think it is hot now.. look what is in store for us tomorrow! Please be careful and stay cool.

06/12/2022

National Weather Service has issued: HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT

WHAT: Heat index values up to 110 expected.

WHEN: From noon Monday to 8 PM CDT Wednesday.

IMPACTS: Hot temperatures & high humidity may cause heat illnesses.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS:
A hot and humid airmass will move into the region Monday afternoon and persist into Wednesday evening. Peak afternoon heat indices will reach 105 to 110 degrees, while apparent nighttime temperatures will only drop into the upper 70s to lower 80s.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS:
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, schedule frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9-1-1.

06/07/2022

Pet Preparedness

Your pets are an important part of your family, and they rely on you to keep them safe. Are you prepared to keep them stay safe when a disaster occurs?

You may have to evacuate quickly or may be separated from them when something happens. By making a plan to prepare your pets for disasters, you can prevent having to make impossible decisions about your beloved pet and can give them their best chance of staying safe during and after a disaster.

Things to consider when making a plan:
• Have an evacuation plan for your pet. Many public shelters and hotels do not allow pets inside. Know a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters and emergencies happen.
• Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.
• Have your pet microchipped. Make sure to keep your address and phone number up-to-date and include contact information for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area.

Keep that plan, and what you need for your pet’s care in an emergency kit tailored specifically to their needs. Here are the top items recommended for your kit:
• Food. Keep several days’ supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container.
• Water. Store a water bowl and several days’ supply of water.
• Medicine. Keep an extra supply of the medicine your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container.
• First aid kit. Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs.
• Collar with ID tag and a harness or leash. Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag. Have copies of your pet’s registration information and other relevant documents in a waterproof container and available electronically.
• Traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet.

For more Pets and Animals Preparedness tips, visit Ready.gov.

05/31/2022

Stay alert as tomorrow night may be an active weather night. Do you have a weather radio?

Severe thunderstorm potential is increasing for central Illinois Tuesday evening. Expected hazards include thunderstorm wind gusts up to 70 mph, large hail to the size of ping pong balls, and a tornado or two. Keep an eye on the forecast and have a way to receive weather warnings tomorrow evening.

05/18/2022

Sherman Police Department is accepting applications for Police Officer. Please note deadline of applications is May 31st.

04/16/2022

Sorry, we had a technical mistake and the sirens accidently went off. All is ok.. please enjoy your day.

04/13/2022

The potential for storms are still there, just not as likely. Remember to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts.

04/13/2022

Severe weather is on the forecast for today. Make sure you have numerous ways of receiving your weather alerts. A weather radio is best but staying tuned via TV or radio works too. Stay safe Sherman!

03/03/2022

MARCH CELEBRATES RED CROSS MONTH

The Red Cross Society has been in existence since the 1800’s, the American Red Cross was founded in 1881 by Clara Barton, since then it has been lending humanitarian aid for numerous emergencies. The Red Cross is famously known for their blood donation program nationally and internationally. However, they do much more than just blood donations, the organization helps those in various emergencies such as wars, natural disasters, and other crisis. The American Red Cross responds to emergencies nationally and will lend a hand with international aid as well.

In 1943 President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared March to be Red Cross Month. Since then, all consecutive presidents have declared March Red Cross Month. Everyone can do something to continue this humanitarian spirit by:

* Give Blood: The American Red Cross’s blood donation program contributes 40% of the blood needed in the USA to save lives.
* Donate: The American Red Cross is a charitable organization and operates on the donations of the public to continue their life saving missions.
* Volunteer: The Red Cross consists mostly of volunteers, there is always a need for volunteers as the organization goes to communities and help with recovery from various emergencies.
* Get Trained: The American Red Cross offers lifesaving trainings in CPR, First Aid, Lifeguarding, and others.

Volunteering with the Red Cross is something that goes on year around, but March’s Red Cross Month aims to recognize those who live out turning compassion into action. So as the world continues to ride the wave of COVID-19 let us do what we can to help those dealing with various emergencies in their lives.

03/01/2022

This is Severe Weather Preparedness Week (February 28 - March 4).
During this week, Illinoisans are encouraged to:

* Update their family communication plan,
* Make a severe weather preparedness plan,
* Build an emergency preparedness kit,
* Identify a safe place during a storm and
* Know the various weather watches/warnings/advisories.

“Sharing the dangers of weather hazards and a few preparedness tips are just the first steps. Applying safety actions in an emergency takes practice. This week, our professionals at the Illinois Emergency Management Agency encourage all families, businesses, schools, and communities to plan ahead, build a kit, practice what to do, and be better prepared,” said IEMA Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau.

For information related from Sherman go to www.shermanil.org and click on the resources page of the Emergency Management Page or contact the Village at [email protected].

Sherman, Illinois is located north of Springfield, IL and is a family-oriented community with many organized youth activities. Consider visiting Sherman.