Winter Storm Warning: Stay Safe on Icy Roads This Season
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A winter weather advisory, issued by the National Weather Service at 3:20 a.m.on Saturday, remains in effect until 11 a.m. for Oneida, Otsego, Delaware, and Sullivan counties. The advisory warns of freezing rain and the potential for a light glaze of ice accumulation.
According to the National Weather Service, “Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous.” The advisory urges caution, stating, “Be prepared for slippery roads.Slow down and use caution while driving. If you are going outside, watch your first few steps taken on stairs, sidewalks, and driveways. These surfaces could be icy and slippery, increasing your risk of a fall and injury.”
Mastering Winter Roads: Safe Driving Tips
Winter weather claims thousands of lives annually. The National Highway Traffic Safety Governance reports over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries each year. Driving on snow or ice requires extra vigilance.Reduce your speed substantially, anticipating icy patches even on seemingly clear roads. Be aware of potential hazards like falling tree branches and downed power lines. If possible,avoid driving altogether during severe winter storms. If you must travel, select routes with fewer obstructions and never approach a downed power line. report any downed lines immediately by calling 911.
Here’s how to prepare for safe winter travel,according to best practices:
Before You Go: Essential Winter Driving Prep
Share your travel plans: Before embarking on a winter journey,inform family or friends of your destination,route,and estimated arrival time. This simple step can be crucial in case of an emergency.
Prepare your vehicle: Ensure your gas tank is full. Pack an emergency kit including a windshield scraper, blankets, extra warm clothing, jumper cables, and a first-aid kit. Consider stocking non-perishable food and water.
winter Driving Safety: Essential Tips for U.S. Drivers
Winter weather can transform even the most familiar roads into treacherous driving conditions. Preparing for the unexpected is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable winter driving experience. This guide provides essential tips to help you navigate winter storms and stay safe on the road.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter Travel
Before embarking on any winter journey, ensure your vehicle is properly equipped. Pack a winter emergency kit including a scraper,jumper cables,a small shovel,a flashlight,a cell phone,a blanket,extra warm clothing,drinking water,and high-calorie non-perishable food. These items can be lifesavers if you become stranded.
What to Do if You Become Stranded
If you find yourself stranded, “stay composed,” advises the National Weather Service.Immediately notify someone of your situation and precise location. Resist the urge to walk to safety; instead, make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and hazard flashers. Attaching a brightly colored cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror can also help signal for assistance.
Snow plows are essential for clearing roads, but they also present unique challenges for drivers. “Keep an eye out for snow plows and allow them ample room to pass,” recommends the National Weather Service. only attempt to overtake a plow when you have a completely clear view of the road ahead.
Checking Road Conditions Before you Go
Before starting your trip, always check the current road conditions.Numerous resources,including state Department of Transportation websites and weather apps,provide up-to-the-minute reports on road closures,hazardous conditions,and traffic delays. Making informed travel decisions based on these reports can significantly reduce your risk of accidents.
By following these winter driving tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of accidents and ensure a safer journey. Remember, readiness and awareness are your best defenses against winter weather hazards.
This data is compiled using machine learning and data from the National Weather service.
with winter weather advisories issued across the Northeast adn freezing rain threatening icy road conditions, it’s more important than ever to brush up on safe driving techniques. We spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a renowned meteorologist and road safety advocate, to get expert advice on navigating the season’s treacherous conditions.
Senior Editor, World-Today News: Dr. Carter,thank you for joining us today. Winter weather can be unpredictable and hazardous, particularly for drivers. What are some of the most critically important things people should keep in mind when behind the wheel during icy conditions?
Dr.Emily Carter: Absolutely. It’s essential to approach winter driving with heightened awareness and caution. First and foremost, reduce your speed considerably. Even a light glaze of ice can make roads incredibly slippery, so adjust your driving to the conditions.
World-Today News: What specific challenges do icy roads present to drivers, and how can they prepare for them?
Dr. Carter: Icy roads significantly reduce traction, making it harder to control your vehicle. Sudden braking or sharp turns can easily lead to skidding.
Before embarking on any winter journey, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready:
Check your tires: Make sure they have sufficient tread depth. Consider investing in winter tires for optimal grip on snow and ice.
Maintain proper fluid levels: Ensure your windshield wiper fluid is topped off with a winter formula that won’t freeze.
World-Today News: That’s great advice. what about those unexpected situations, like encountering a downed power line or a fallen tree branch?
Dr. Carter: Those are significant hazards.If you encounter a downed power line, never approach it. Assume it’s live and report it to authorities promptly. Fallen branches can obscure vision and create unexpected obstacles, so always drive cautiously, especially on less-traveled roads.
World-Today News: You mentioned the importance of adjusting our driving to the conditions. Can you elaborate on that?
Dr. carter: Absolutely.
Increase following distance: allow extra space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you, as stopping distances increase on slippery roads.
Avoid abrupt maneuvers: Steer, brake, and accelerate gently to maintain control.
* Be especially cautious on bridges and overpasses: Thes surfaces tend to freeze first and can remain icy longer than other roadways.
World-today News: Excellent points. What about those who have to travel long distances during winter storms? Any special advice?
Dr. carter: If you must travel during a winter storm, inform someone of your route and expected arrival time. Pack an emergency kit with essentials such as a blanket, flashlight, snacks, water, and a first-aid kit.
World-Today News: Dr. Carter, thank you for sharing your valuable insights on safe winter driving.
dr. Carter: It’s my pleasure. remember, safety should always be your top priority when driving in winter conditions. Stay informed, prepare your vehicle, and adjust your driving accordingly.
