Experts give tips for staying safe while on Arkansas roads in winter weather
The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management is sharing tips on how to stay safe while driving during extreme winter conditions.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — As extreme winter weather makes its way through Arkansas leaving behind frigid conditions on the roadways, officials are urging people to stay home if possible.
“We understand that there are times when you must travel, but in events like this, your safety is the top priority,” said Lacey Kanipe the Public Information Officer for the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management.
With sleet falling on Arkansas roadways and freezing, Kanipe says that being prepared is one of the best things you can do to stay safe.
“It’s important that they pack an emergency kit, and that’s something we always encourage, is preparedness just in general. Make sure you have extra blankets. Make sure you have food, water, a phone charger, a first aid kit, anything that you can think that will help you if something happens when you’re traveling during winter events,” she explained.
It’s also important to keep items on hand that can help with traction.
“Packing things like sand or cat litter, which can actually be used for traction, and you can take a shovel with you, or take some hand warmers or reflective triangles in the event that you do become stranded,” Kanipe said.
Medical supplies and medications are also important to have in that emergency kit in case you get stuck.
“In the event of a disaster or an emergency, you always want to make sure that you have those prescribed medications, especially if you’re on something that’s you’re dependent upon like insulin, or anything of that nature is so important to have,” she added.
While being prepared is important to keep in mind before hitting the roadways there are also some other tips to remember while driving.
“Don’t follow too closely. Make sure that you’re reducing your speed. Don’t make any kind of jerking motions while driving, and just make sure that you are creating a distance between the vehicle that’s in front of you. If you feel comfortable stay in that right lane,” said Kanipe.
Anyone planning on traveling on the roads should ensure they have plenty of time to get to where they need to be to ensure everyone can make it to their destinations safely. The ADEM also advises drivers to move over if they encounter any emergency service vehicles.
If you are in need of road assistance you can call the non-emergency number for Arkansas State Police by dialing *277.