Winter storm left you stranded on the road? Stay safe with these tips
In the aftermath of a snowstorm that stranded drivers and passengers along Interstate 95 in Virginia for more than 15 hours, the Missouri Department of Transportation in Kansas City reminded people of the importance to prepare for winter travel.
People in Virginia posted desperate messages on social media about running out of fuel, food and water after a crash along I-95 brought traffic to a halt and left hundreds stranded in the snow, according to the Associated Press.
“Plz remember to gas up & have an emergency kit in your vehicle,” MoDOT Kansas City wrote on Twitter. “You never know what could happen. The situation in Virginia is a prime example.”
Both MoDOT and the Kansas Highway Patrol suggest people have a survival kit. Here’s what to pack inside:
- First aid kit
- Extra blankets or clothing
- Extra mittens or gloves, socks, a warm cap and rain gear
Non-perishable food
Bottled water
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Ice scraper and shovel
- Jumper cables
- Small tools, including pliers, a wrench and screwdriver
- Matches and candles or flares
- Sand or kitty litter for traction
- Tow rope or chain
- A brightly colored cloth to use as a flag
If you become stuck in the snow in your car, here are some tips from MoDOT:
- Stay in the vehicle. Don’t leave to search for help or survey any damage.
- Hang a brightly colored cloth on the antenna or other part of the car.
- Run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes each hour. Only use the dome light when the vehicle is running.
- Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow.
- Move occasionally to keep from staying in one position for too long.
- Take turns sleeping if there is more than one person.
- Huddle together for warmth.
The KHP notes on its website that winter driving can be dangerous, especially at the beginning of the season when drivers are out of practice.
The KHP says to just follow common sense: travel only when necessary, keep your speeds down and drive defensively. It also suggested that people have their vehicles checked before winter hits to make sure that such things as tire treads are adequate for traction.
MoDOT also suggests people give snowplows plenty of room and not pass.
“If you don’t feel comfortable, pull off the highway and park at the first safe place,” MoDOT said.
For travel information, see Missouri’s Traveler Information page here. In Kansas, the road conditions hotline is 511 or can be found online here.
This story was originally published January 5, 2022 at 5:00 AM.
