§ Be Cautious About Travel
§ Listen for radio or television reports of travel advisories issued by the National Weather Service.
§ Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads if at all possible.
§ If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
§ Check and restock the winter emergency supplies in your car before you leave.
§ Never pour water on your windshield to remove ice or snow; shattering may occur.
§ Never rely on your car to provide sufficient heat; the car may break down.
§ Always dress warmly.
§ Always carry clothing appropriate for winter conditions.
What To Do If You Get Stranded
§ Staying in your vehicle when stranded is often the safest choice if winter storms create poor visibility or if roadways are ice-covered. These steps will increase your safety when stranded:
§ Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna as a signal to rescuers.
§ Move anything you need from the trunk into the passenger area.
§ Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing, blankets, or newspapers.
§ Stay awake. You will be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems.
§ Run the motor (and heater) for about 10 minutes per hour, opening one window slightly to let air in. Make sure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe-this will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
§ As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to improve your circulation and stay warmer.
§ Do not eat un-melted snow it will lower your body temperature.
Prepare Your Vehicle For Winter
§ You can avoid many dangerous winter travel problems by planning ahead. Have maintenance service on your vehicle as often as the manufacturer recommends.
§ Have the radiator system serviced, or check the antifreeze level yourself with an antifreeze tester. Add antifreeze, as needed.
§ Replace windshield-wiper fluid with a wintertime mixture.
§ Replace any worn tires, and check the air pressure in the tires.
§ During winter, keep the gas tank near full to help avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
Winter Survival Kit For Your Vehicle:
Equip your vehicle with these items:
§ Cell phone and charger
§ Blankets
§ First-aid kit
§ A can and waterproof matches (to melt snow for water)
§ Windshield scraper
§ Booster cables
§ Road maps
§ Compass
§ Tool kit
§ Paper towels
§ Bag of sand or cat litter (to pour on ice or snow for added traction)
§ Tire chains (in areas with heavy snow)
§ Collapsible shovel
§ High-calorie canned or dried foods and a can opener
§ Flashlight and extra batteries
§ Canned compressed air with sealant (for emergency tire repair)
§ Brightly colored cloth
Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.>