PATROL URGES DRIVERS TO TAKE CAUTION, PREPARE FOR WINTER

Although Monday's snow flurries and reports of possible accumulation proved to be of little consequence, the Missouri State Highway Patrol still cautioned that motorists should be prepared to face inclement weather this winter.

"As you prepare to travel during the winter season, you should keep several things in mind to stay safe," said Sgt. R. B. Davis of the patrol.

First and foremost, motorists should make sure that their vehicles are in good repair, Davis said. Batteries that are more than two years old should be checked, as should the radiator fluid. The fluid should be rated low enough so it does not freeze when the weather turns colder.

Belts and hoses should be checked for proper tightness and excessive wear.

Tires should also be in good shape. Studded snow tires are legal in the state, but only from Nov. 1 to April 1, Davis said.

Davis suggests that drivers give their vehicles a chance to warm-up before they begin their trips. He also said that all windows should be clear of frost, snow and ice.

"Don't just clear off a small hole to peek out of. Your vision is severely limited when you do this," he said.

Gasoline tanks should be kept at least half full during the winter months.

Emergency equipment should also be kept in the trunk of the vehicle in case the vehicle becomes stranded. Emergency equipment should include flares, blankets, a flashlight, gloves, tools, tire chains, a small snow shovel, a snow brush, booster cables, a "Send Help" sign and a small bag of abrasive material, such as sand, salt or kitty-litter, to help tires gain traction.

Once the vehicle is ready, Davis warns drivers to be certain that they are ready for driving in winter conditions.

"Many times we let our minds wander as we drive. Unfortunately, when the roads are slick due to ice or snow, this brief period of inattention may be just enough to cause you to lose control of your vehicle and be involved in a traffic crash," Davis said.

Certain precautions need to be taken by drivers to insure their safety and the safety of others, Davis said.

He suggested that drivers allow themselves extra traveling time when snow and ice begin to fall on the road. He also cautioned against "black ice" -- a slick spot in the road that has been traveled over so much that it looks like a part of the road.

He also suggested that drivers use their headlights during the gray days of winter and that they refrain from using their cruise control when the roads are slick.

Highway Department snow-plows should also be given the right-of-way, Davis said.

"It's aggravating to get behind a snow plow going 25 to 30 miles per hour when you want to go faster. But remember the ridge of snow and ice that they sometimes leave on the pavement can cause your vehicle to go out of control," Davis said.

He also cautioned drivers to be aware of road conditions before they begin trips.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Missouri Highway and Transportation Department operates a toll-free number for drivers to check Missouri road conditions, (800) 222-6400. The automated system is updated every hour and allows drivers to find out about road conditions throughout the state.