The South Carolina Emergency Management Division urges you to use extreme caution when getting out Tuesday morning. Between the snow and freezing rain, there could be power outages and freezing roads.
The EMD urges you to avoid going outdoors whenever possible and not driving unless absolutely necessary. Crews are working to clear roads. But ice has formed on roads across the state, particulary on secondary roads.
There is also the potential for black ice, which forms when the air temperature is warmer than the pavement, causing moisture to rapidly freeze and create a thin, slippery, transparent layer of ice on the road.
Drivers can increase safety by observing the following tips:
· Be aware that black ice is almost invisible.
· Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses, tunnels and on secondary roads in the morning and late evening when the air temperature is changing faster than the pavement temperature.
· Never brake while driving on ice. Applying pressure to your brakes while on ice will cause your vehicle to skid. Brake only during your approach.
· Keep your distance. The distance needed to stop on ice is twice as long as under normal driving circumstances. Keep at least a three-car distance from the vehicle in front of you.
People are urged to remain indoors and stay warm and to keep in mind:
· Remember the usual emergency supplies: a flashlight and batteries, a battery-powered radio, extra non-perishable food and water, extra medicines and baby items, and first-aid supplies.
· Top off the fuel tank in your car, check the antifreeze, and keep in mind that driving conditions during the winter can become extremely hazardous due to icy roads and bridges.
· Freezing temperatures can burst water pipes in homes that lack heat or proper insulation. Wrap exposed pipes or take other measures to insulate them from the cold.
· Prepare a place indoors for pets. Move farm animals to shelters and have extra feed and water available.
· If you must go outdoors, dress in layers and cover your ears, head and hands.
For more information, visit the Emergency Management Division. <http://www.scemd.org>
