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"Winter weather will be upon us shortly," said Illinois Department
of Transportation Secretary Timothy W. Martin. "In fact, this year
we've already had accumulation in some parts of Chicago and northern
Illinois, so it's important for motorists to get ready now because
Illinois weather can become dangerous in a matter of minutes. Our
plow teams have spent the past several weeks running routes, getting
refresher training, and preparing plows, spreaders, trucks and all
of the other equipment we need to clear the roads of ice and snow."
The Department of Transportation scaled back mowing and other
activities in order to save funds for fighting wintry weather. Snow
removal is a safety issue and a top priority for the department.
Because of conservation efforts earlier this year, the department
will maintain its clear pavement policy, meaning that plow crews
will stay out until a storm has passed and the highways are all free
of accumulation. The department's financial staff will closely
monitor winter-related expenses, but at no time will snow removal
operations suffer because of financial considerations.
During the 2006-2007 winter season, more than 3,000 Department of
Transportation employees and nearly 2,000 pieces of equipment will
be used in keeping state routes clear and passable. Last year the
department spent $34.9 million dollars on snow removal efforts,
which included an estimated 324,000 tons of salt and 482,200 labor
hours.
"Winter provides new challenges and responsibilities to the
public and the Illinois State Police," said Illinois State Police
Director Larry Trent. "We ask that drivers be prepared to meet the
challenge of the upcoming winter season in Illinois. Plan ahead,
make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained, drive
defensively, and make sure the vehicle is properly maintained to
handle the effects of cold temperatures."
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 Other safety tips:
-
Make sure
your vehicle is winterized. Check the battery, antifreeze level,
heater, defroster, wipers and windshield washers.
-
Always keep
your gas tank at least two-thirds full to prevent the vehicle's
fuel line from freezing.
-
Dress
warmly for the cold weather. Wear layers of loose-fitting,
lightweight clothing in anticipation of unexpected winter
weather emergencies.
-
Do not
travel during severe winter weather unless absolutely necessary.
If you do have to make a trip, check the forecast and plan ahead
with safety in mind.
-
Make sure
someone is aware of your travel route.
-
Always
carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables,
flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice
scraper, traction material, blankets, nonperishable food, and a
first-aid kit.
-
Carry a
cell phone.
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Always wear
a safety belt.
Motorists are urged to check travel conditions before any trip.
For information on road conditions, call 1-800-452-IDOT (4368) or
visit
www.gettingaroundillinois.com.
[Illinois
Department of Transportation news release]
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