Changing weather could mean trouble

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November 29, 2008

Frank Denzler The Rushville Republican Sat Nov 29, 2008, 09:47 AM EST

There’s an old saying, “If you don’t like Indiana weather just wait a while, it will change.” It’s been somewhat cold the past several days but the week is expected to conclude with snow falling.

For the most part, November saw unseasonable temperatures, but forecasters are predicting a major change beginning today and continuing through early next week — including the possibility of accumulating snow today.

Rush County Highway Department Superintendent Jerry Sitton has his staff and equipment ready for the first blast of winter to hit the area. The city street department is also ready for its first taste of winter in several months.

Concerns are heightened as well for law enforcement agencies as the season’s first snow is expected. Depending on the amount of moisture before the cold front arrives, area road surfaces may be difficult to navigate as the temperature drops below 32 degrees.

Motorists will need to be aware of their surroundings and how rapidly road and driving conditions can change and deteriorate.

Posted speed limits are a maximum under ideal driving conditions and should be adjusted accordingly.

The drop in temperature is also a reminder to winterize your vehicles. It is important for motorists to maintain fluid levels in window wash tanks. There are a variety of available brands at reasonable prices that are weather rated for winter use.

It is also recommended that gas levels be maintained. Condensation can form in gas tanks or gas lines if the fuel levels remain low, causing engines to be sluggish on start-up. This puts added stress on the starter and battery of the vehicle.

Car battery terminals should also receive periodic checks and the fluid level of the battery cells should be checked if the battery is not of the maintenance-free variety.

Tires with adequate tread life and inflated to the dealer recommended PSI level, and brakes in good working order, are two major points in driver and passenger safety. Most local tire shops offer free checks of tread wear and proper inflation, and a brake inspection for a very nominal fee.

Law enforcement agencies also recommend that a winter driving kit be kept in a vehicle at all times. The kit should contain an extra set of dry cloths, a jacket, blanket, toboggan-type hat and gloves. A flashlight with extra batteries and a supply of non-perishable high energy food, such as granola bars and bottled water, are also recommended.

Keep in mind that as the weather changes so do road conditions, frequently at a rapid pace. During the early morning and evening hours a wet looking road surface could actually be covered with a thin layer of ice. The ice has a dramatic impact on stopping distance.

The Rushville Police Department and Rush County Sheriff’s Department want this year’s holiday travel season to be safe for all motorists.

With that in mind, drivers and passengers are reminded to buckle-up when driving.

Frank Denzler can be contacted at (765) 932-2222 ext. 106 or via e-mail at frank.denzler@rushvillerepublican.com. To add a comment to this story visit our Web site at www.rushvillerepublican.com.

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