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| 11/20/2006 |
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For More Information: Dave Thompson, (503) 986-4180
Storm warning clouds Thanksgiving travel plans
ODOT, OSP warn motorists to prepare for the worst
SALEM — The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning that calls for falling
snow levels through Thanksgiving. ODOT and Oregon State Police advise drivers to leave
plenty of time for traveling and carry chains or traction tires.
In addition, ODOT advises motorists to prepare their vehicles for winter driving conditions.
Before leaving, tell a family member or friend where you are going, the planned route and when
you will return.
“We expect snow levels to lower steadily through Thanksgiving,” said Jay Stockton,
meteorologist for the National Weather Service’s Medford office. “Travelers will likely encounter
snow in the Cacades and Siskiyou mountain passes starting Tuesday night and continuing
through Thanksgiving.” The heaviest snowfall is expected Tuesday and Wednesday, according
to Stockton. Road updates are online at www.Tripcheck.com, ODOT’s travel information web
site, or by calling 511. From outside of Oregon, dial (503)-588-2941.
Prepare for winter driving conditions
ODOT and OSP officials encourage drivers to prepare their vehicles for winter driving
conditions. Before traveling in hazardous conditions, double-check the important areas of your
vehicle:
* Inspect windshield wipers and fill the washer tank with winterized fluid. Properly inflate
tires, including the spare, and carry tire chains.
* Check the heater, the defroster and the lights to make sure they are working properly.
Check the age of your battery.
* Check the antifreeze and make sure hoses and belts are in good shape.
If you are driving in areas that have ice or snow on the road, remember these winter driving
tips:
* Turn off your cruise control.
* If you lose traction and your vehicle feels like it’s floating, gradually slow down. Don’t
slam on the brakes.
* Use caution when driving on bridges or concrete highways. These surfaces are the first
to freeze and become slippery when the temperature drops.
* Slow down in advance of shaded areas, especially on curves. Shaded areas are cooler
and may have ice that is difficult to see.
* Don’t pass snowplows or sanders, and don’t follow them too closely.
Make sure your vehicle is stocked with:
* A full fuel tank and a good highway map;
* An ice scraper, battery booster cables, road flares, properly inflated spare tire, vehicle
jack, lug wrench and basic tool kit;
* A small shovel, a bag of cat litter or sand for traction in case you get stuck, and a plastic
tarp to help keep you dry when installing tire chains;
* A flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs, an extra pair of winter gloves and a warm hat,
a change of clothes and a warm blanket, snack foods, matches in a waterproof
container, extra quarters for phone calls, a pocketknife and a first aid kit;
* A large thermos bottle filled with water or a hot drink; and
* A cell phone with fully charged extra batteries.
If you travel with an infant, pack extra food, warm clothes and blankets, toys and games, and
extra diapers, just in case. And always remember to buckle up and properly use your child
safety seat.
###ODOT###
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