If you have been out and about already today, you know how slippery the roads are as snow piles up on Central New York highways and streets.
State police are urging drivers to take it slow as you make your way to work, school or on errands over the next few days.
With heavy snowfall and falling temperatures expected to blanket the region over the next few days, police want to remind you how important it is to drive carefully and give yourself plenty of extra time to get where you're going.
State Police will be out checking the major highways to make sure folks are driving carefully. You are being asked to travel only if necessary and take into account snowfall, wind and visibility while driving.
Police have the following tips to make sure you stay safe:
*Get the latest weather forecast. Click here to see the latest CNY Central weather report.
*Keep a full tank of gas
*Fluid levels are sufficient ( windshield washer fluid, ant-freeze)
*Spare tire is sufficient and you have the jack and wheel wrench
*Clear snow and ice from windows and lights
*Use headlights even during the day to increase your visibility to others
*Drive prudently. If the conditions are adverse you should decrease your speed accordingly
*Brake early and correctly
*Be careful of bridges, overpasses, and ramps as icing conditions are more prevalent
*Do NOT use cruise control
*Do NOT be over confident in four wheel drive vehicles. You may be able to drive through snow easier but slowing and stopping distances are lengthened. Also you are only as safe driving as the other cars around you.
*Look out for events farther down the road. Creating more time to react can make a difference
*Be aware of plows, maintenance vehicles and emergency vehicles. Give them room to work
*If you do not absolutely have to go out on the roads, then don't.
Police also want you to keep a safety kit in your trunk in case you are stopped or stranded. Police recommend you keep the following items in your trunk: gloves, blankets, warmers, tool kit, first-aid kit, non-perishable foods, water, working flashlight and batteries, cell phone charger, shovel, ice scraper, de-icer, snow brush, rock salt or cat litter, tow chain or cable, jumper cables or battery charger, etc.
Meanwhile, National Grid crews are preparing for potential power outages in the days ahead with snow and an icy wintry mix forecasted for parts of central New York Tuesday and Wednesday.
"We are closely monitoring the forecasts and making plans to address any issues that might arise," said Christopher E. Root, National Grid senior vice president of Electricity Operations. "Our pre-planning will enable our crews to respond quickly and safely to potential outages that could occur."
National Grid recommends you have several working flashlights, at least one battery-operated radio and an extra supply of batteries in your home.
If you see any fallen lines, broken poles or trees touching wires, contact National Grid. You should consider any downed wire live and dangerous.
Click here to see power outages.
