12/20/2005
Holiday travelers reminded to check road conditions, use caution
BOISE - A few extra precautions can ensure safer holiday travels for motorists, reminds the Idaho Transportation Department.
Auto travel during the Christmas and New Year's holidays is expected to reach record levels. Approximately 81 percent of all holiday travelers expect to go by motor vehicle, up by 1.7 percent from a year ago, according to the American Automobile Association.
When driving in winter weather conditions, follow these safety tips:
Plan ahead. Before heading out on Idaho's roadways, dial 511 or visit 511.idaho.gov on the Web for updates on winter road and weather conditions, emergency closures and access to tourist information.
Slow down. Leave a few minutes early and allow extra time to get to your destination. If you are in a hurry, remember it is better to be a few minutes late than to put yourself and others at risk by driving too fast for the conditions.
Designate a sober driver. Designate a sober driver before each party or event involving alcohol. Now through New Years, Idaho law enforcement officers are increasing patrols to take drunk drivers off the roads. The stepped-up patrols are part of the "You Drink, You Drive, You Lose!" campaign.
Buckle up. Wearing a seat belt is one of the easiest safety precautions you can take. Make sure children are properly secured in a safety seat that is right for their age and weight. For more information, go to itd.idaho.gov/ohs/childsafety .
Drive safely around snowplows. Keep at least two car lengths behind snowplows for every 10 mph you drive. Do not pass a snowplow, and never drive through the snow being ejected from the plows because the force of the spraying snow can throw your car out of control.
Use extra caution. Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges. Also take caution against black ice. Drive less than the speed limit if conditions warrant.
Prepare your car. Winter conditions increase the importance of a well-maintained vehicle. Keep your cars windows, mirrors and lights clear of snow and ice. Make sure tires and brakes are ready for the extra demands of winter. Visit a mechanic and ensure your car's battery and fluid levels are up to par and heating units are working.
Share your travel plans. Tell family or friends about your travel plans, including estimated departure and arrival times, route and where you will stay when you reach your destination. If delayed, be courteous and call those who may be worried when you arrive at your destination.
Keep in contact. If you have a cell phone, make sure it is charged and carry a list of emergency phone numbers.
Be prepared. Keep emergency supplies in the car: flashlights, extra batteries, first aid kit, pocket knife, blanket or sleeping bag, mittens, socks and a wool hat, small sack of sand or cat litter for generating traction under the wheels, small shovel, bottled water, booster cables, rope, energy bars or other food, brightly-colored scarf to attract attention in case of an emergency, waterproof matches or cigarette lighter and map of the area where you plan to travel.