November 16-22 is Winter Weather Preparedness Week
GREENFIELD, IN - It's official! Now is the time to get ready for winter driving: Governor Mitch Daniels has declared November 16-22 Indiana Winter Weather Preparedness Week.
"We take this occasion to urge motorists to check tires, brakes, belts and hoses," says Brandye Hendrickson, deputy commissioner of the Indiana Department of Transportation Greenfield District. She adds, "It's a good idea to put blankets, packaged foods and water -some sort of winter survival kit-in your vehicle just in case."
INDOT is advising the motoring public to take time during the week to prepare vehicles for driving in snow and ice conditions and to brush up on winter driving strategies. Those strategies include monitoring weather and driving conditions, and leaving in plenty of time. Before departing, motorists should clear windows, lights, brake lights and signals of snow-and know that the vehicle is in good operating condition. In a phrase, INDOT reminds drivers: Ice & Snow.Take It Slow.
Hendrickson adds, ".or just don't go."
Of special concern to INDOT is safety around snowplows. Drivers are cautioned to give plow trucks plenty of room to operate. Transportation officials warn: slow down, don't tailgate, pass only with extreme caution. A snowplow driver's field of vision is restricted. The driver may not see you. So keep your distance-and watch for sudden stops or turns.
Winter storms can be extremely dangerous. According to the National Weather Service, 11 of 17 winter weather related deaths occur in motor vehicles. Most of those deaths could have been prevented were travelers aware of road conditions and prepared for the worst.
For additional wintertime driving pointers, visit www.winterdrivingsafety.in.gov.
