Winter Weather Preparedness Week: Travel Safety

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This week is Winter Weather Preparedness Week in Indiana.

How should you drive when snow occurs? What should you do if
stranded by a blizzard or ice storm? Are you weather ready?
When Winter Storm Warnings or Winter Weather Advisories are
issued consider changing your plans before you leave. If you
travel, provide others your planned travel route, expected
arrival time, and a phone number to be reached at.
The Indiana State Police reminds drivers the following:
always obey all posted signs; adjust vehicle speed according
to weather, road and traffic conditions; allow plenty of space
between vehicles for extra stopping distance necessary when
roads are slippery.

The Indiana Department of Transportation reminds you to keep a
safe distance behind snow plow operators. If salt is hitting your
vehicle, you are following too close. Avoid passing snow plows
on two lane roads. Also keep in mind bridges and overpasses
often become icy first. Snow and blowing snow can cause sudden
restrictions in visibility. Remember, ice and snow, keep it slow.
If you are stranded in a snow or ice storm stay with your vehicle
as it provides dry shelter and protection from the cold and wind.
You are also more likely to be found with your vehicle than if you
leave it to seek shelter. Walking even a short distance in blinding
snow storm may quickly get you lost. Damp clothes and bitter wind
chills quickly lead to frostbite or hypothermia.
While stranded with your vehicle, run the motor and heater just
enough to warm the vehicle. Keep the exhaust pipe snow-free and
a window open slightly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Make
your vehicle more visible by attaching a bright colored cloth on
the antenna. At night, turn the dome light on.

For more info on being prepared go to getprepared.in.gov