Hochul releases safety tips ahead of hazardous pre-Valentine’s Day winter snowstorm

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — As parts of New York state brace for up to a foot of snow Monday evening into Tuesday morning, Gov. Kathy Hochul has issued several winter weather safety tips residents should keep in mind.

The storm — which could bring heavy precipitation, gusty winds and flooding to the Mid-Hudson, lower Mid-Hudson, Capital and Southern Tier regions, and New York City and Long Island — may cause localized power outages, the governor warned.

WINTER WEATHER SAFETY TIPS

If unable to avoid traveling by vehicle during the storm, the governor recommended keeping the following in mind:

  • Stock your car with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
  • If you have a cell phone or other communications device such as a two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling. If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.
  • Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.
  • It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit, to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, as this is the most efficient and safe way to clear several lanes at one time.
  • Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop…

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