Throughout the state, salt domes are being restocked following last year’s historic winter and snow plows and emergency equipment are ready to be pressed into action during the coming months.
CHICAGO –With colder weather rapidly approaching and winter right around the corner, the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois Tollway and the Illinois State Police (ISP) announced they are fully prepared for the upcoming snow-and-ice season and once again reminded motorists that when there is “Ice and Snow, Take it Slow.”
Throughout the state, salt domes are being restocked following last year’s historic winter and snow plows and emergency equipment are ready to be pressed into action during the coming months.
“The Illinois Department of Transportation spends the whole year preparing for this critical time of year on all roads and highways. We take great pride in our snow-and-ice response and commitment to safety,” Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Erica Borggren said. “While our top priority is to make sure our roadways are safe as possible, we do ask the motoring public to do its part as well. That means staying off your handheld devices, always wearing a seat belt and allowing for extra time in all of your travels this winter.”
For the upcoming winter, 1,768 trucks statewide will be available for deployment by IDOT crews to keep about 16,000 miles of state routes — the equivalent of driving from Chicago to Miami almost 12 times — clear and passable. Last year, IDOT spent $131.4 million on snow removal and spread almost 800,000 tons of salt statewide. This winter, IDOT will have access to more than 1 million tons of salt if needed.
For years, ISP, Tollway and IDOT have worked together to urge motorists to drive defensively and safely in winter weather.
“An alert and prepared driver is a safe driver,” ISP Director Hiram Grau said. “Winter driving conditions can be hazardous and life-threatening for motorists and first responders if the necessary road safety precautions are not taken.”
Safety tips to remember include:
• Don’t crowd the plow — a snow plow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you.
• Watch out for black ice on roads that appear clear but can be treacherous. Take it slow when approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shady areas — all are prone to icing which is often invisible.
• Try to keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to help prevent the vehicle’s fuel line from freezing.
• Do not travel during bad weather unless absolutely necessary — if you do have to make a trip, check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your travel route.
• Carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first aid kit.
• Carry a cellphone.
• Always wear a safety belt.
• Motorists are urged to check travel conditions before any trip. You can get road condition information by calling 1-800-452-IDOT (4368) or online at www.gettingaroundillinois.com and clicking on the “winter road conditions” icon.