Motorists Urged to be Alert for Snow Squalls

HARRISBURG, Pa., Jan. 24, 2007 -- PennDOT today reminded motorists to always be alert for sudden snow squalls while traveling in Pennsylvania.

According to PennDOT, a blast of artic air predicted to enter Pennsylvania on Thursday will bring rapidly falling temperatures, as well as snow showers and squalls.

Motorists should remain alert for squalls since they often appear without warning, may greatly impede visibility, and can quickly cause roads to become dangerously slick. PennDOT dispatches crews as soon as there are reports of squalls in an area.

  PennDOT offers this advice to motorists who encounter snow squalls:

   --  Gradually slow down and drive at a speed that suits conditions.
   --  Turn on your headlights.
   --  Stay in your lane.
   --  Increase your following distance.
   --  Stay alert; keep looking as far ahead as possible and be patient.
   --  Reduce in-car distractions since full attention is required.
   --  Use defroster and wipers.
   --  Keep windows and mirrors free of snow and ice.
   --  During whiteouts, come to a complete stop only when you can safely
       get as far off the road as possible.
   --  Do not stop in the flow of traffic since this could create a chain-
       reaction collision.
   --  Do not pass a vehicle moving slowly or speed up to get away from a
       vehicle that is following too closely.
   --  Always buckle up, and never drink and drive.