Carbondale Police Department shares winter weather driver preparation tips

CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) – Carbondale Police Department is giving winter weather preparation tips to drivers.

They say you should stock your vehicle.
Carry items in your vehicle to handle common winter driving-related tasks, and supplies you might need in an emergency, including:
-a snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper;
– abrasive material (sand or kitty litter), in case your vehicle gets stuck;
-jumper cables, flashlight, and warning devices (flares and emergency markers);
-first aid kit, including tourniquet;
– blankets for protection from the cold; and
-a cell phone and charger, water, food, and any necessary medicine.
Be prepared by getting gas and plugging in.
Keep your gas tank close to full whenever possible.
Similarly, in the case for electric and hybrid-electric vehicles, it is important keep your battery charged and to also minimize the drain on the battery. In general, batteries with liquid electrolyte have reduced energy storage and delivery capabilities at lower temperatures, which is why most all vehicle batteries use battery power for self-heating in low temperatures. The battery drain due to heating can be minimized by keeping your electric vehicle as warm as possible during freezing temperatures. A common way to do this is plugging your vehicle in at night during the winter – keeping the battery in its optimal temperature ranges.
Plan Your Route
Check your local weather and traffic reports before heading out. If your roads are not in good shape, consider postponing non-essential travel until the roads are cleared. If you do have to go out, make sure you are prepared in case you become delayed while traveling. If making a long road trip when winter weather is forecasted, consider leaving early or changing your departure to avoid being on the roads during the worst of the storm.
Familiarize yourself with directions and maps before you go—even if you use a GPS—and let others know your route and anticipated arrival time.
On longer trips, plan enough time to stop to stretch, get something to eat, check your phone, and change drivers or rest if you feel drowsy.