Story Published: Jan 4, 2009 at 3:58 PM PST
Story Updated: Jan 4, 2009 at 4:22 PM PST
With record-breaking snowfalls and bitter cold temperatures, Idaho State Police Captain Lonnie Richardson said this winter's off to a treacherous start.
"The storms have been horrific for us," said Richardson. "We're out there just like the motoring public driving around. There's been lots of snow, lots of blowing and drifting snow, and the combination of slick roads and blowing and drifting snow puts people in the ditch pretty easy."
Richardson said although a heavy coat and plenty of gas may be the two winter essentials, there are a few more tools necessary to keep you safe.
"Some other things to add would be kitty litter and some sand," said Richardson. "You can pick up rolls of sand at a hardware store. Sand does a couple of things, it adds weight to the back of the car, especially a small pick-up, as well as give traction on the rear ends. Also, if you get stuck, you have the ability to put those under the tires. You also want to have a small shovel, a good ice scraper, a pair of gloves, and a stocking cap."
Richardson also recommends filling your trunk with candles, de-icer, a few blankets, and something to eat.
"Food that is non-perishable, crackers works well, chocolate works well," said Richardson.
The basic road safety tips like maintaining an appropriate speed and buckling up are especially crucial during winter months, but the most important piece of advice Richardson said he has for highway travel is just don't go if it’s too dangerous.
"If there's a storm in the area, stay home," said Richardson. "There's no place you need to be, other than work and even at that point you need to evaluate whether or not it's worth the risk. Especially between here and Moscow, here and Grangeville, here and Kamiah, those areas during heavy snow warnings or even mild snow warnings, those roads can be really slick.".
