For immediate release: Jan 05, 2010
Posted by: [ISP]
Contact: Sergeant Michael L. Burns
Phone: 765-620-0248
Email:
mburns@isp.in.govIf Your Vehicle Breaks Down in Extremely Cold Weather Conditions
Pendleton - Freezing temperatures are expected for the next few days. A vehicle that becomes disabled can make for a life or death situation for the driver and passengers.
State Police Safety Tips
* Before you leave check the weather forecast and let someone know your route of travel.
* Always keep your gas tank full when driving in cold weather.
* Take a cell phone and make sure it is completely charged. Bring your in car charger also.
* Carry a winter survival kit in your car: blankets, flashlight, extra batteries, brightly colored cloth, sand or a bag of cat litter, shovel, candles and matches, non perishable high calorie foods, (nuts, raisins, and candy bars), newspapers (for insulation), a first aid kit and jumper cables.
* Do not leave your car if stranded, it is your best protection. Do not panic. An idling car only uses one gallon of gas per hour.
* Roll down a window a very small amount for fresh air.
* Make sure the car's exhaust pipe is not blocked to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
* At night, leave your dome light on.
* If at all possible carry a cell phone, and call 911.
* Put your car's hood up or tie a brightly colored cloth on the antenna to alert motorists of an emergency. A Good Samaritan will often call 911 to report to police that you need help.
The tips provided sound simple and include several items to place in your car, but they could save your or a family member's life. For road information visit the Indiana Department of Transportation web site TrafficWise.IN.gov or dial 800-261-ROAD (7623).
