Winter weather is here and in full force so make sure you are prepared for the worst situations. The Weather Channel has some tips on what to do if you get stuck in a storm:
• Stay on main roads and highways, and stick to the flattest roads you can. Avoid hills and roads with sloping surfaces wherever possible
• Drive only during daylight hours, and avoid driving alone if you can.
• Bring blankets with you to keep warm in case you become stranded. Also bring bottled water or warm beverages, to avoid becoming dehydrated.
• Let family members know where you’re going and when you’re expected to return.
• If a snowstorm or blizzard forces you to stop, pull off the highway and turn on your hazard lights. If you have a distress flag or sticker, hang it from your radio antenna or apply it to your window. Remain in your car, where rescuers are most likely to find you.
• If you’re stranded for an extended period of time, run your engine for about 10 minutes every hour to stay warm. Open a window slightly for ventilation while the car is running, to prevent any carbon monoxide buildup. Remove any snow that builds up on your car’s exhaust pipe.
• If you have to spend the night in your car, turn on the interior overhead light so rescuers or work crews can see you.
Traveling in a snow storm is not advised and Custer County Sherriff Dan Osmond has words of advice for those thinking about traveling out in less than favorable conditions, “Stay home. The majority of travelers [during storms] don’t need to be there. I would just ask for a little more patience and a little more thought put into travel plans.”
