Winter weather road ready tips

From Ky Emergency Management: 
When temperatures drop, it’s important to prepare for winter weather risks to ensure the safety and comfort of yourself and your loved ones whether at home or on the road. Here are key steps you can take to stay #WinterReady.

Prepare Your Vehicle and Be Road Ready

Always make sure your vehicle is in good working condition before you travel. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for winter driving tips, including updated information about snowplows, emergency supply kits and tires.

• Have numbers for your auto insurance provider and a local towing company number readily available.
• Keep your gas tank as full as you can. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Install good winter tires and make sure they have enough tread – and use chains, if needed.
• Clear off all snow or ice on your vehicle before getting on the road.
• Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, a phone charger and power bank, battery charger and non-perishable snacks. Check your kit every six months and replace expired items.
• If roads are not in good shape, consider postponing non-essential travel whenever possible.
• Know the risk of bad weather before you leave home. Listen to a local radio or television station for the latest forecasts and road conditions.
• Tell others your route and anticipated arrival time
• It takes longer to slow down on icy roads. Increase your following time to five-six seconds.
• If stranded, run the engine for 10 minutes per hour to operate the heater and charge your cellphone. Make sure your vehicle’s exhaust isn’t blocked by snow. Open a window slightly to let fresh air in and avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

For more winter weather driving tips, visit Prepare Your Vehicle | NHTSA.gov.

Winter weather requires knowing your risks, planning and staying informed by listening to your local officials. Learn how to stay safe, warm and keep your home or vehicle protected by FEMA’s #WinterReady campaign https://tinyurl.com/42st72v5