EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WCIA) — The City of Effingham is partnering with the Effingham Public Library to offer people emergency shelter in times of severe weather.

The city’s Emergency Management Agency said in a news release that it had reached a deal with the library to set up an Emergency Community Safe Room to be activated during severe weather. The shelter will be located in the library’s basement to provide temporary refuge to visitors and others seeking safety from storms.

The safety of our residents is our top priority,” said Effingham City Administrator Steve Miller. “This community shelter is critical to our emergency preparedness plan.”

The room will be activated based on criteria like tornado warnings, dangerous wind speeds or other hazardous conditions determined by the National Weather Service and the City of Effingham EMA. Once activated, announcements will be made via radio, TextMyGov and social media.

Upon arrival, shelter guests will be asked to sign in and follow posted rules — no weapons, drugs or alcohol and to behave respectfully. Families will be kept together and pets will be allowed if leashed or crated. There will be basic supplies like water, blankets and charging stations.

People can also volunteer to staff the shelter by contacting the Effingham EMA office or visiting their website.