SPRINGFIELD, IL (KFVS) - The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is stressing the importance of emergency  preparedness throughout May as part of its 2013 preparedness campaign.

“Businesses that emphasize emergency preparedness both in the workplace and for their employees at home help protect their most important assets, their employees,” said IEMA Director Jonathon Monken.  “Throughout May, we’re encouraging businesses to take a look at their workplace emergency plans, conduct safety drills and encourage their employees to put together a home emergency supply kit and family communications plan.”

Monken said his agency plans to provide preparedness information and tips to staff throughout May. 

IEMA says to develop a plan that addresses each threat, taking into consideration different shifts.

 Other parts of an emergency plan include:

ANNA, IL (KFVS) - The Anna Arts Center will be hosting an event for kids to explore the arts while their parents are Black Friday shopping on Friday, November 23 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The arts center says the kids will have activities to keep them busy, including: drawing, painting, music, skits, making a Christmas card and a movie. It will be an opportunity for the kids to be creative and have fun.

It costs $30 or $5 an hour and includes snacks and lunch.

According to the center, you must register by Nov. 20 for this event. You can send a check made out to the Anna Arts Center and mail to 125 West Davie Street, Anna, IL 62906. They ask you please include your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, name of the child and time the child will attend.

SPRINGFIELD, IL (KFVS) - As thousands of families and children prepare to enjoy the Halloween season, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal reminds residents to be vigilant and follow the necessary fire safety precautions when entering haunted houses.

The fire marshal says these amusements can present special hazards that make them particularly vulnerable to fires if applicable fire codes are not followed.

Haunted houses are considered "special amusement buildings," which means the structure is temporary, permanent, or mobile and conveys people through a walkway. Often these temporary structures are built with combustible materials such as plywood and cardboard.

OSFM calls on local enforcement agencies and haunted house owners and operators to follow safety code guidelines.