GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — West Michigan hasn't seen much winter weather ahead of the holidays, but now that snow has arrived, road crews are ready.
The Kent County Road Commission said it had more than 100 trucks ready to hit the road, as soon as they're needed. Some crews are already on the roads, scraping snow and applying de-icing materials throughout the county's network.
The director of maintenance, Jerry Byrne, says despite the extra challenges that the pandemic has presented, such as enforcing social distancing measures, his crews have been properly trained, just as they are every other winter season.
But it's also important drivers are prepared before they hit the roads, too.
"The good news is I went by many tire shops, I see the long lines of people to get new tires so they are thinking ahead making sure their vehicles are ready," Bryne said. "Now its just that amount of preparedness they need to be ready to slow down and to drive accordingly."
The road commission said motorists should closely monitor conditions, because they can change rapidly and within minutes. Here are some tips from KCRC:
- Slow down
- Allow extra time to reach destination
- Leave additional space between vehicles
- Avoid in-car distractions
- Give plow trucks plenty of room and do not pass them on the right (wing may be in use)
The number one thing to remember is "don't crowd the plow" KCRC said. Snow plows are large and operators cannot see directly behind the truck. Motorists should keep a safe distance away and slow down when a slow plow is near -- watch out for the plow's green and amber lights. Also, do not pass plows on the right and definitely do not pass in a snow cloud.
Along with getting ready for winter with snow tires, it's important to have other safety items in your car and to always be ready to adjust your driving habits, if conditions on the roads deteriorate.
Make sure the vehicle is in good working order by doing the following:
- Check the condition of the tires or consider snow/winter tires
- Replace the wiper blades, if needed
- Fill up on antifreeze and window-washer fluid
- Ensure the battery has sufficient charge
- Try to keep the gas tank full
Keeping an emergency kit in the vehicle is also important. It should include things like:
- A blanket and warm clothes (boots, coat, gloves)
- A flashlight
- Jumper cables
- Tow rope
- Shovel
- First aid kit
- Bag of sand or cat litter for traction
- Cell phone charger
- Battery-operated radio
- Water
- Non-perishable food, snacks
- Reflective triangles
The State of Michigan has a downloadable Auto Emergency Preparedness Kit Checklist to assist the planning process.
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