Missourians are getting a taste of snow, ice and frigid temps this week. The Highway Patrol reminds motorists to take simple precautions that can save lives and limbs.
Lt. Scott Meyer with Troop H in Northwest Missouri assisted many motorists who were stranded, stuck or had crashed. He says when the roads are slick and the conditions are treachorous, a few supplies are warranted.
Meyer says driving on “E” isn’t a good idea either. If a motorist does run off the road and it takes a while for help to arrive, it’s necessary to keep the car running to heat the inside. Meyer recommends never letting the gas tank get below half a tank in cold and inclement weather conditions.
The Highway Patrol recommends carrying:
– a cell phone
– blankets
– a warm coat, boots, heavy socks, gloves and a hat
– a small shovel, a bag of sand or kitty litter, which can help to gain traction when stuck
– flares or an orange triangle marker to place by vehicle if stuck, stranded
– flashlight
Meyer says two basics are perhaps the most important though: drivers need to pay attention to the road and slow down when weather conditions are a factor.