B-Aware Bloomington

For the last couple of days the National Weather Service has been warning citizens in southern Indiana of another significant snowfall headed for the area. Weather predictions include a rain/snow mixture possible in the afternoon then turning to all snow overnight. Some areas can expect three to six inches of snow by Saturday morning. Motorists are reminded to follow the tips below to make their weekend travel safer.

Be prepared:

• Before traveling, check the forecast and let someone know your travel route.

• Remove all snow and ice from your vehicle’s windows. Clear it completely, don’t just scrape a couple of “port holes.” Also, remove all snow and ice from headlights and taillights.

• Keep your gas tank full, if possible.

• Carry a winter driving kit which should include: blankets, flashlight and extra batteries, a brightly colored cloth, sand (or cat litter), shovel, candle, matches, non-perishable high calorie food, a first aid kit and jumper cables and a charged cell phone.

• Buckle up.

Drive according to road conditions:

• Allow extra time to get to your destination.

• Beware of bridges and overpasses that freeze before other stretches of roadway.

• Slow down to increase traction; don’t use cruise control on slick roads.

• Avoid abrupt stops and starts, slow down gradually and keep wheels turning to avoid losing traction.

• Use low beam headlights to decrease glare from ice on roadways.

Should you become stranded:

• Don’t leave your car, it’s the best protection you have.

• Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna if you need help.

• Roll down your window a small amount for fresh air.

• Keep the exhaust pipe free of blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Don’t panic, an idling car uses only one gallon of gas per hour.

For road information:

• The best sources for road and weather information are your local radio and TV media.

• PLEASE DO NOT CALL city, county or state police dispatch centers for road and weather conditions.

• For statewide road and weather information visit INDOT’s web siteTrafficWise.IN.gov or dial 800-261-ROAD (7623).

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DURNIL

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