WINTER WEATHER TRAVEL ADVISORY FROM THE N.C. HIGHWAY PATROL
RALEIGH - Possible accumulations of sleet and freezing rain are expected across most of North Carolina today and into the evening hours. The Patrol is reminding motorists that they should not drive in such weather unless it is an absolute emergency. Citizens should observe conditions in their area and stay tuned to local radio and television for weather information.
Please do not call Highway Patrol communication centers or county 911 centers for road conditions. These communication centers are busy handling wreck calls and are often getting lifesaving assistance to people who are injured.
If you want to check road conditions go to www.ncsmartlink.org.
Here are some winter driving tips for those who feel they must drive in winter weather:
Reduce your speed. Driving at the regular speed limit will reduce your ability to control the car if you begin to slide.
Leave plenty of room between you and other vehicles.
Bridges and overpasses accumulate ice first. Approach them with extreme caution and do not apply your brakes while on the bridge.
If you do begin to slide, take your foot off the gas and turn the steering wheel IN THE DIRECTION OF THE SLIDE. Do NOT apply the brakes as that will cause further loss of control of the car.
If you DO NOT have anti-lock breaks, pump your breaks to come to a stop
If you DO have anti-lock breaks, put constant pressure on the breaks to come to a stop
If you have a cellular phone, take it with you; you can contact the Patrol statewide by calling *HP (*47) or call the county emergency center by dialing 911. Both calls are toll free.
If you become trapped in your car:
Pull off the highway; stay calm and remain in your vehicle. At night, turn on the inside dome light, so work and rescue crews can see you.
Set your directional lights to "flashing" and hang a cloth or distress flag from the radio aerial or window. In a rural or wilderness area, spread a large cloth over the snow to attract attention of rescue crews who may be surveying the area by airplane.
Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter. Be careful: distances are distorted by blowing snow. A building may seem close but may actually be too far to walk to in deep snow.
If you run the engine to keep warm, open a window slightly for ventilation. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning. Periodically clear away snow from the exhaust pipe.
Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat as a blanket.
Never let everyone in the car sleep at once. One person should stay awake to look out for rescue crews.
Be careful not to use battery power. Balance electrical energy needs the use of lights, heat and radio with your supply.
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