Winter Driving Awareness and Preparedness

The Elk County Sheriff’s Office highlights the importance of being aware of winter weather and road conditions before driving, and to always be prepared in the event you get stranded on a roadway. This is especially important as we approach the Thanksgiving and Christmas Day holiday season where there will be an increase in travelling on highways. Here are some tips to keep everyone safe on the highway during this winter season.

• Please ensure your vehicle is winterized and always give yourself extra time.

• Clear all ice and snow from windshields and use headlights during dim light conditions, and when windshield wipers are in operation.

• Keep a full tank of gasoline.

• Maintain a good driving distance between other vehicles and plan for extra time during winter weather conditions and on hazardous roadways.

• Do not use cruise control on slippery roadways.

• Use headlights to increase visibility.

• Good planning also involves having an emergency travel kit with a flashlight, batteries, a blanket, jumper cables, water and some non-perishable foods in the event you become stranded.

• It is always better to postpone and reschedule all unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions.

• Remember the new law prohibiting drivers from holding the phone for any reason, even when your vehicle is stopped in traffic.

• Lastly, stay alert for plow trucks and as far away from the center line as possible when a plow truck is travelling toward you.