Albany, N.Y. - New York State Police advise the public to be prepared and avoid unnecessary travel during the upcoming winter storm.
The forecast is for significant amounts of snow to fall in many areas across the state from Saturday into Sunday. Troopers will be out in force during the storm to provide assistance, will be working closely and coordinating with local Emergency Operations Centers.
Motorists who must travel in the areas impacted by the snow are asked to give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. Remember bridge and exit and entrance ramps can be icy when other road surfaces are not.
If you must travel New York State Police ask that you keep the following tips in mind:
- Get the latest weather forecast and road conditions before leaving via your local weather apps, radio or TV stations.
- Always clean your windows and mirrors FULLY of any snow and ice before driving.
- Keep a full tank of gas
- Make sure fluid levels are topped off (windshield washer fluid, anti-freeze)
- Make sure your spare tire is in working condition, and you have a jack and lug wrench
- Use headlights at all times to increase your visibility to others. Remember, if your windshield wipers are in use due to weather, then your headlights must be on.
- Drive prudently. If the conditions are adverse, you should decrease your speed accordingly.
- Brake early
- Do NOT use cruise control. This decreases your reaction time to apply braking.
- Look out for events farther down the road. Creating more time to react can make a difference.
- Be aware of maintenance vehicles and emergency vehicles. Give them room to work.
- Stock your trunk to help you to be safe in case you are stopped or stranded in an area without assistance readily available:
- Gloves, blankets, warmers, tool kit, first-aid kit, non-perishable foods, water, working flashlight and batteries, cell phone charger, etc.
- Shovel, ice scraper, de-icer, snow brush, rock salt or cat litter, tow chain or tow cable, jumper cables or battery charger, etc.
Troopers remind you if you drive off the roadway and are stuck in a snow bank or ditch, stay in your vehicle and call 911. DO NOT exit your vehicle unless it is an absolute emergency. You put yourself at risk of being struck by another vehicle. Roll your windows down a few inches or turn your vehicle off if you are stranded in snow for a period of time with your vehicle running. Covered mufflers can cause serious physical injury or death due to inhalation of carbon monoxide.
And as always if you don't need to be out on the roads, stay home and stay warm.