Getting stuck in a Colorado blizzard or lodged in a snowbank while driving might seem like a nightmare scenario, but like most weather-related emergencies, the best way to handle it is by preparing before it happens, according to national and state officials.
“Even the most cautious drivers can get stuck due to a road closure or a crash involving vehicles in front of them,” Colorado State Patrol Col. Matthew Packard said in a statement. “Make the best of a ‘less than ideal’ situation by being prepared, conserving your phone’s battery power, and staying put.”
How to drive in snow and ice in the mountains: A Colorado winter survival guide
Drivers should make sure their vehicle has a full tank of gas or a fully-charged battery and is in safe operating condition, including the windshield wipers, heater/defroster, battery, brakes and tires with at least 3/16th of an inch of tread, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.
Tire tread can be measured by sticking a quarter into the tread with George Washington upside down, CDOT officials said. If the top of Washington’s head is covered by the tread, the tires are okay, but if the top of his head is visible at any point, the vehicle needs new tires.
Here’s what to do if stuck in the snow:
- Call 911 and stay in the same place. “Unless you are in immediate danger, the best protection for you is to stay inside your vehicle. You want to keep dry, cover all exposed body parts, and not perform activities that would overexert yourself,” CSP officials said in a statement.
- Be visible to rescue crews and other drivers. Turn on emergency hazard lights; tie bright fabric to the antenna, window or door; and keep the interior dome light on when the engine is running.
- Be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Clear snow from the exhaust pipe and only keep the engine running long enough to stay warm. “Running your vehicle for long periods of time can damage it and potentially fill the interior of the vehicle with fumes,” state patrol officials said.
People driving on winter roads should also keep an emergency kit on hand, according to CDOT and the National Weather Service.
What to include in a winter car emergency kit:
- Phone charger
- First aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Tire chains and tow rope
- Flares/reflectors to signal for help
- Water and nonperishable snacks
- Flashlight
- Boots, mittens, warm clothes
- Blanket or sleeping bag
- Shovel, ice scraper, snow brush
- Bag of sand or cat litter
- Hand warmers
- Hand-crank or battery-operated radio to listen to emergency broadcasts
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