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Source: http://lsp.org/news_detail.html?id=7786

id cleanReleaseDate troopName title
7786 2011-02-02 Troop I Winter Weather Advisories
LOUISIANA STATE POLICE
COURTESY LOYALTY SERVICE

Colonel Michael D. Edmonson, Superintendent

Troop I Press Release
For Immediate Release

February 2, 2011


Winter Weather Driving Advisories

Weather forecasts for Thursday night and Friday morning indicate a strong possibility of rain and/or a sleet/snow mix in southwest Louisiana. Unfortunately, the wet precipitation on the roadways has the potential of freezing and creating “black ice,” a thin, nearly invisible coating of ice that forms on paved surfaces. This type of weather pattern can be dangerous for motorists who are traveling along Louisiana highways, as most are not accustomed to such driving conditions.

The Louisiana State Police urges motorists to keep abreast of the latest weather and travel conditions before deciding whether a trip is necessary, as rain/snow can cause bridges and overpasses to ice quickly, particularly in the evening hours when temperatures are below or near the freezing mark. If bridges and overpasses accumulate ice, the Louisiana State Police will continue to work closely with the Department of Transportation and Development to take appropriate measures.

As conditions change, motorists are reminded to always wear their seat belts correctly, use appropriate child restraints, adjust their speed and never travel faster than conditions allow. Do not drive using the cruise control in icy conditions, allow ample time to reach your destination and allow extra space between vehicles, and keep vehicle headlights on. If you should have vehicle problems, be sure to stay with your vehicle, as freezing temperatures can be life-threatening. Have a survival kit: emergency first aid kit, blankets, jumper cables, high-energy or dehydrated foods, flashlight with extra batteries, extra (charged) cell phone battery, emergency flares, and bottled water.

Troop I Commander, Captain Troy Meche offers additional advice, “One of the things we want to stress to the public is that we will not preemptively close any roadways. We will only shut down appropriate sections as the need arises. If you have any questions about road closers we ask you to call 511.”

This would be an excellent time to check the condition of your vehicle’s tires, battery, windshield wipers and antifreeze. Low tread on tires can cause a vehicle to lose traction in all weather conditions. Weak batteries can prevent vehicles from starting in cold weather. Anti-freeze will protect your engine and radiator from freezing up due to cold temperatures.
If you experience difficulties or witness hazardous situations while on the highway, notify your local State Police Troop office by dialing *LSP (*577) from your cell phone. For road closure information, motorists can dial 511 or visit www.511LA.org.

For More Information Contact:

Tpr. Stephen Hammons
Louisiana State Police
Troop I- Public Affairs
337-262-1917
Stephen.hammons@dps.la.gov
www.LSP.org

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