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Last updated on Thursday, December 5, 2013
(UNDATED) - With a significant winter weather system expected to make its way to Indiana on Thursday evening, state officials are warning Hoosiers to prepare in advance.
Preparations include charging cell phones and other items in case power is interrupted, evaluating whether driving is necessary, taking your time if you decide to drive, and gathering items for your car and home in case they are needed.
The National Weather Service is predicting sleet and significant snowfall beginning Thursday evening. These conditions, in addition to low temperatures, may cause roads to be extremely icy and travel conditions dangerous. Anyone in the path of the storm is strongly encouraged to make alternate plans in case weather conditions disrupt daily routines.
Travel Advisories
Go to GetPrepared.in.gov and click on "Indiana Travel Advisory Map" at the top of the page. The map is updated with information from counties and describes the conditions for a travel warning, watch, advisory, and caution.
The page also has links to the Indiana Department of Transportation's Traffic Wise information.
A travel "advisory" is notification that travel may be restricted in some areas. Under a "watch" level, only essential travel is recommended. A travel advisory at a "warning" level means travel may be restricted to emergency personnel only.
DO NOT call city, county or state police to check on road conditions - police agencies across the state want to keep phone lines open for emergency phone calls. Dial toll-free 1-800-261-ROAD (7623) for updated Indiana travel information, including road conditions, road closures, crashes and other traffic alerts.
Winter Driving Safety
Those considering going out onto the roads are advised to check the weather forecast and travel conditions prior to leaving, and allow for extra travel time. If driving during the storm is necessary, make sure you have a fully charged and functioning cell phone. A vehicle preparedness kit is also strongly encouraged. Items in a vehicle preparedness kit include:
At least two blankets or a sleeping bag;
Flashlight and extra batteries;
Booster (jumper) cables;
Emergency flares;
Extra clothing, including boots, hats and gloves;
Shovel
Bottled water and non-perishable foods like granola bars, raisins, nuts, peanut butter or cheese crackers;
First-aid kit and necessary medications;
Sand or non-clumping kitty litter for tire traction;
Cell phone and charger for vehicle use; and
Ice scraper and snow brush.
When traveling, always move over or pull to the side of the road for first responders.
If You Become Stranded
Unless there is a safe structure nearby, do not leave the car, since it is the best protection;
Run the engine for 10 minutes every hour to stay warm. An idling car only uses about one gallon of gas per hour;
Tie a brightly colored cloth to the car for rescuers to see;
Light a flare or turn on a flashlight to let others know you are stranded;
Make sure the exhaust pipe is free of any blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning; and Keep hydrated by drinking water from your preparedness kit. Don't eat snow, as it will lower body temperature.
For more information on winter travel safety, visit GetPrepared.in.gov.
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