WINTER SNOW STORM WARNING: TROOP K- ADVISES MOTORISTS ON ALL ROADS TO USE CAUTION WHEN TRAVELING

State Police would like to remind motorists to use extreme caution while traveling on all roadways during the morning hours on Wednesday, March 7, 2018, continuing into Thursday, March 8, 2018.  Avoid unnecessary travel and be alert for potential road closures.

State Police Troop K members will be out across the region checking all major routes of travel to ensure that motorists are as safe as possible.  We are asking for your assistance to make this possible.  Motorists traveling in areas impacted by the snow are asked to leave with extra time to make a slow and careful drive to your destination.

With the arrival of inclement weather consisting of heavy snow (estimates of 2+ inches per hour) is expected to begin close to noon on March 7, 2018, and continue through Thursday, March 8, 2018; which will make all affected roadways slick and unpredictable with limited visibility.

Take into consideration snow accumulation on the roads, the current snowfall rate, the wind, and visibility.  Use your best judgment to determine if driving is prudent and allow for adjustments to your schedule to ensure a safe commute.
Keep the following tips in mind:

• Get the latest weather forecast before leaving with your local weather apps, monitor radio or TV stations
• In WHITE OUT conditions, turn on your Hazard or 4-way lights to enhance the visibility of your vehicle
• Always clean your windows and mirrors FULLY of any snow and ice before driving
• Keep a full tank of gas
• Ensure your fluid levels are sufficient (windshield washer fluid and anti-freeze)
• Ensure the spare tire is sufficient and you have the jack and wheel wrench
• Use headlights at all times to increase your visibility
• Drive prudently.  If the conditions are adverse you should decrease your speed accordingly
• Look down the road for potential hazardous
• Be observant
• Brake early
• DO NOT use cruise control.  This decreases your reaction time to apply brakes
• If you do not absolutely have to go out onto the roads, then do NOT
• Be aware of all EMERGENCY VEHICLES: Police, Fire, Ambulances, Town Trucks, Tow Trucks, and Maintenance Vehicles

If you are involved in a collision or leave the roadway:

If you drive off the roadway and are stuck in a snow bank or ditch, stay in your vehicle, activate your emergency flashers, and call 911.  DO NOT exit your vehicle unless it is an absolute emergency.  You put yourself at risk of being struck by another vehicle.

Roll the windows down a few inches or turn your vehicle off if you are stranded in snow for a period of time with your vehicle running.  Covered exhaust pipes can cause physical injury or death due to inhalation of carbon monoxide.

If you should become stranded on the Thruway or any roadway, know your location by being aware of your direction and milepost marker when applicable.  This will help emergency personnel reach your location as quickly as possible.

Follow the New York State Police’s Twitter page @nyspolice for up to the minute information on road closures and weather alerts.

The Thruway Authority provides a wide variety of information for travelers including current traffic conditions, accidents, and lane closures.  Visit www.thruway.ny.gov for more information.

Slow Down.  Be Prepared.  Be Safe.

Prepare for Additional Power Outages

• At home or at work, keep a battery-operated radio and flashlight on hand, as well as a supply of batteries. Keep an emergency supply of water, medications, and non-perishable foods handy. If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem – check with your physician or pharmacist.
• Make sure you have alternative charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power. Charge cell phones and any battery-powered devices.
• If you have space in your refrigerator or freezer, consider filling plastic containers with water, leaving an inch of space inside each one – this will help keep food cold if the power goes out.
• At home or at work, keep a battery-operated radio and flashlight on hand, as well as a supply of batteries. Keep an emergency supply of water, medications, and non-perishable foods handy. If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem – check with your physician or pharmacist.
• Make sure you have alternative charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power. Charge cell phones and any battery-powered devices.
• If you have space in your refrigerator or freezer, consider filling plastic containers with water, leaving an inch of space inside each one – this will help keep food cold if the power goes out.

If You Lose Power

• Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage and listen to local broadcasts for official information. For a list of utilities, visit the New York State Department of Public Service Check to see if your neighbors have power. Check on people with access or functional needs.
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting – candles pose the risk of fire.
• Keep refrigerators and freezer doors closed – most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for approximately four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Do not use a charcoal grill indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat – they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
• In cold weather, stay warm by dressing in layers and minimizing time spent outdoors. Be aware of cold stress symptoms (i.e., hypothermia) and seek proper medical attention if symptoms appear.