TxDOT offers winter driving tips
Polk County Enterprise - January 2010

Rain during very cold temperatures can often develop into sleet or snow, which can create roadway hazards for motorists. To minimize the potential hazards The Texas Department of Transportation offers the following tips for safe winter driving: • Make sure vehicle is maintained for winter weather conditions by checking fuel and antifreeze levels. Never drive with your fuel gauge near empty. • Check tires, lights and battery. Use no-freeze fluid in the windshield washer reservoir to help keep vehicle windows clear in cold temperatures. • Drive with caution on bridges and overpasses since elevated roadways freeze over first. • A little snow or ice can be just as dangerous as a lot of it. Snow and ice can melt as the temperature rises during the day only to refreeze as glazed ice as temperatures dip below freezing again. • Listen to weather broadcasts prior to and during travel. Call TxDOT’s toll-free highway conditions at 1-800-452-9292 or use Texas road conditions on the Internet at http://www.txdot.gov/travel/ road_conditions.htm. • During these conditions only make trips that are necessary. • Stay in the vehicle if stranded/ stalled and wait for help. Use car heater sparingly and with plenty of ventilation while doing so. Stay awake and move around as much as possible to maintain circulation and body warmth. • For severe winter weather keep flashlight, new batteries, jumper cables, matches, abrasive material (sand, kitty litter, even floor mats), shovel, ice scraper, warning devices (like flares) and blankets in the vehicle. For long trips, take along water, non-perishable food, medicine and a cell phone. Inform others route and arrival time. • Plan ahead by allowing plenty of time for travel. Be prepared for possible delays by leaving early. • Buckle up and use child safety seats properly. • Do not drink and drive. For more information, call Kathi White at (936) 633-4395. Information about TxDOT is also available through the department’s Web site at www.txdot.gov.