Late Evening/Early Morning Snow Hampers Morning Traffic
Indianapolis, IN- A late evening, early morning snow hampered the rush hour commute for travelers as the Indiana State Police answered numerous calls for service throughout the Indianapolis District. The Indianapolis District is comprised of Marion, Johnson, Shelby, Hendricks, Hancock, Hamilton and Boone counties.
Beginning yesterday evening at 6:00 p.m. until late this morning at 11:00 a.m., troopers responded to 8 personal injury and 115 property damage crashes. Troopers assisted with 31 reported slide off’s that did not result in any damage. Trooper’s also responded to 69 calls for service during this time period that was not weather related.
None of the personal injury crashes were serious and no life threatening injuries were reported.
To keep travelers safe during the winter season the Indiana State Police offers the following tips.
Be prepared:
Ø Before traveling, check the forecast and let someone know your travel route
Ø Keep your gas tank at least half-full
Ø Carry a winter driving kit that should include blankets, flashlight, extra batteries, a brightly colored cloth, sand (or kitty litter), shovel, candle, matches, non-perishable high calorie food, first aid kit, and jumper cables
Ø Have a cell phone and charger cord
Ø Slow down on snow/ice covered roads
Ø Allow extra time to arrive at your destination
Ø Clear all vehicle windows of ice and snow. Remove snow from hood, roof and lights.
Ø Use extra caution when driving across bridges, underpasses, shaded areas and intersections where ice is slow to melt
Ø Avoid abrupt stops and starts. Slow down gradually.
Should you become stranded:
Ø Don’t leave your car. It’s the best protection you have.
Ø Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna
Ø Roll down your window a small amount to allow fresh air in your vehicle
Ø Keep exhaust pipe free of blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
Ø Don’t panic. An idling car uses approximately one gallon of gas per hour
For Indiana road conditions call 1-800-261-7623, or visit the Indiana Department of Transportation website at www.trafficwise.in.gov. In partnership with the Governor’s office, Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana Department of Education and the Red Cross more information can be found at the following website
http://www.crh.noaa.gov/news/display_cmsstory.php?wfo=ind&storyid=59664&source=0
-30-
MYERS
