Snow Snow Snow
It’s a beautiful sight to have all of this fresh snow on our beautiful mountain. It’s always recommended to stay home rather than chance the slippery roads. If you do have to leave your house, here are some tips and tricks to assist you.
Remove snow from the top of your vehicle
Although not illegal in California it could be potentially dangerous.
While you might think that clearing the snow /ice is just for your visibility, there is quite a hazard to leaving snow on the top.
Leaving snow on top of your vehicle could result in bits falling forward onto the windshield causing low visibility but it can also fall backwards onto cars and pedestrians behind you causing “ice missiles”, in which sheets or blocks of snow and ice fly off roofs or windshields of cars and trucks, endangering those in vehicles behind them. Ice missiles can distract drivers and cause them to swerve into other cars. And they can crack windshields, and sometimes cause injuries — even deaths.
If you haven’t experienced digging your car out, I highly suggest you give yourself at least an hour to do so. Click here for some tips from WikiHow.
Road and driving safety
Check weather and snow conditions and plan accordingly. Avoid driving during a snowstorm. Snow plows will be working and visibility might be low. Visit weather.gov for weather conditions and forecast. Check Caltrans for road conditions/traffic, including chain controls, road closures and more. Ensure you understand chain control requirements and how to install them (practice before coming).
Plan for safety and comfort. Make sure you start your trip with a full tank of gas. Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll return; check in when you get back. Pack water, high-energy meals, and snacks — and pack more than you think you’ll need. Dress in layers of warm, waterproof clothing, including extra layers. Don’t rely solely on GPS-based maps.
Park in safe, legal spots. Never block traffic or driveways, even to install snow chains. Play on open public lands only. Choose a hill that does not send sledders into roadways.
Well being
Be sure to hydrate and eat frequently throughout the day. Pay attention to weather conditions and be prepared to leave quickly if conditions change or worsen. Keep an eye on the gas gauge; fill up if low.
With this colder weather, please be careful while driving on the icy roads. As always remember to winterize your home and turn off your water at the customer valve before leaving your mountain home.
Stay safe everyone!