With the predicated wintry weather making its way to Acadiana, La. State Police hope as few people as possible have to use the roadways, but if you do need to get on the roads there are some safety tips that you should heed.

Tips for BEFORE you get inside your vehicle:

  • Check the condition of your vehicle's tires, battery, windshield wipers and antifreeze.
  • Have a survival kit: emergency first aid kit, blankets, jumper cables, high-energy or dehydrated foods, flashlight with extra batteries, extra (charged) cell phone battery, emergency flares, and bottled water.

Tips for AFTER you get inside your vehicle:

  • Reduce speed
  • Allow extra time to reach your destination
  • Allow extra space between vehicles
  • Do not drive using the cruise control in icy conditions
  • Anticipate stops (such as stop signs and traffic signals) and brake gently while stopping
  • If you encounter a skid, take your foot off accelerator and steer into the skid till you regain control
  • Use low beam headlights if it is raining/sleeting
  • Ensure all vehicle occupants are properly restrained

If you experience difficulties or witness hazardous situations while on the highway, notify your local State Police Troop office by dialing *LSP (*577) from your cell phone or contact your local law enforcement agency. Also, you are encouraged to sign up for Nixle Alerts at www.nixle.com for real time updates on roadway closures, crash locations, and pertinent safety information for their region.

To listen to an interview with La. State Police Trooper Stephen Hammons about these tips, CLICK BELOW:

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