Winter Driving Tips

With a predicted 6-11 inches of snow predicted over the next day, Sauk County Sheriff Chip Meister urges the public to only travel when absolutely necessary when bad weather conditions exist, and to use extra caution and slower speeds if you must travel in order to safely get to your destination.

Sheriff Meister also stresses the importance of having an emergency kit in your vehicle over the winter months in the event that you are involved in a crash or your vehicle becomes disabled. Suggested items to carry in your kit as outlined by Ready Wisconsin, a part of the Wisconsin Emergency Management team are;

a shovel
windshield scraper and small broom
flashlight with extra batteries
battery powered radio
water
snack food including energy bars
raisins and mini candy bars
matches and small candles
extra hats, socks and mittens
First aid kit with pocket knife
Necessary medications
blankets or sleeping bag
tow chain or rope
road salt, sand, or cat litter for traction
booster cables
emergency flares and reflectors
fluorescent distress flag and whistle to attract attention
Cell phone adapter to plug into lighter

Your kit should be stored in the passenger compartment of your vehicle for easy access. Make sure that your cell phone is fully charged before travel.

In the event that you are involved in a vehicle crash, you are asked to follow these tips;

If possible, call 911 on your cell phone. Provide your location, condition of everyone in the vehicle and the problem you're experiencing.
Follow instructions: you may be told to stay where you are until help arrives.
Do not hang up until you know who you have spoken with and what will happen next.
If you must leave the vehicle, write down your name, address, phone number and destination. Place the piece of paper inside the front windshield for someone to see.

Chip Meister

Sauk County Sheriff