That first chill in the air and leaves changing to vibrant colors are the first signals of cold weather. While you dig up your scarf, mittens and hat and dust off your winter coat and boots, MoDOT crews are busy dusting off their winter gear too - 1,800 snow-removal vehicles – in anticipation of the winter’s ice and snow.

Since 2000, MoDOT has spent approximately $27.6 million annually on snow and ice removal.  However, last year’s mild winter saved MoDOT about $10 million. Even with a mild winter, more than 3,000 employees spent more than 292,000 hours on snow and ice prevention and removal.

“This winter we will continue using the same basic tools to fight snow and ice: a priority system of routes to determine which roadways are cleared first, dedicated employees that work in shifts around the clock and a stockpile of snow and ice removal equipment and other materials,” said State Maintenance Engineer Jim Carney.

The following are priority levels for snow and ice-removal:

• Priority 1: Highest traffic-volume roadways are cleared first, including interstates and other major routes. These roads receive continuous treatment throughout a storm.
• Priority 2: Heaviest-traveled sections of state numbered and lettered routes.
• Priority 3: Lower-volume, lettered or numbered routes. MoDOT pays special attention to routes traveled by school buses and commuters.
• Priority 4: During regular work hours, workers clean up accumulation on shoulders, bridge edges and interchanges.

“Maintenance crews work hard to clear roadways as quickly as possible after a snowfall, and the priority system works to get traffic moving again as smoothly as possible,” Carney said.

Although MoDOT works hard to clear roads fast and make them safe for motorists, it is also the motorist’s job to drive cautiously, pay extra attention to signs and drive defensively. Below are some tips to keep you safe on your drive this winter.

Winter Driving Tips

Before the Trip

    Make sure your vehicle has fresh anti-freeze and oil, a good battery, and a properly operating exhaust system.

    Avoid driving until roads are cleared and treated.

    Check your tires, brakes, windshield wipers and windshield wiper fluid.

    Equip your vehicle with a survival kit that includes:

                      -flashlight with extra batteries

                      -first aid kit with a pocketknife

                      -basic medications

                      -blankets and/or sleeping bags

                      -extra mittens or gloves, socks, hat and rain gear

                      -small sack of sand for traction under your wheels

                      -small shovel

                      -booster cables

                      -pliers, wrench, screwdriver

                      -brightly colored cloth to use as a flag

                      -non-perishable foods

                      -bottled water

                      -matches and candles

During the Trip

    Obey posted speed limits and adjust your speed to suit driving conditions.

    Give snowplows plenty of room and don’t pass them.

    Always wear your seatbelt.

    Pay attention to temperatures- driving is most dangerous when temperatures are near 32 degrees.

    Be alert and aware of other vehicles.

    Keep your fuel tank at least half-full.

    Keep mirrors, windows and lights clean; keep your lights on.

    Don’t pass other vehicles near bridges.

    Pull over at the first safe location if you don’t feel comfortable driving.

If Trapped in Your Vehicle

    Don’t leave your vehicle to search for help unless help is visible within 100 yards.

    Hang a brightly colored cloth on the antenna.

    Run the engine for about 10 minutes each hour, turning the heat and dome light on only when the vehicle is running.

    Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow and open a window slightly for ventilation.

    Don’t stay in one position for too long, occasionally clap your hands and move your arms and legs.

    If more than one person is in the car, take turns sleeping and huddle together for warmth.

    Use newspapers, maps and car mats for added insulation.