Advisory: Have the right tools and information before traveling.

Posted on Wednesday, November 9, 2011

As the winter months keep getting closer and the holiday travels are planned, it is time to add a little extra planning to be safe and ready for the normal weather conditions that can be expected for the surrounding area.

Many tools are available to prepare for the winter but best tool is just to use common sense. Having a small emergency kit in your vehicle may take up some room; however, when it is needed it can be a lifesaver.

Calling ahead to let others know what your travel plans are can reduce stress. Checking the road conditions in the area that you are heading can be another big advantage. Several updated tools help provide some valuable information on road conditions and weather conditions. The National Weather service can provide you with up to date weather conditions for the nation. By calling 511 or checking the Safe travel website, you can find current road conditions for South Dakota. The safe travel website now provides an integrated system that can provide current road conditions, temperatures, wind speeds, and radar images. The site also provides live camera feeds of selected areas across the state.

All of these sites can be found consolidated on the Lake County Emergency Management website at http://www.lakecountysd.com/lepc/ema.htm as well as other information that may be helpful during severe weather.

Using a NOAA weather radio will provide up to date weather information year around.

With the weather being unseasonably warm, it is possible that we could encounter ice storms that could cause short or long-term power outages. If this should occur, will you be ready at home?

Safe Travel South Dakota http://www.safetravelusa.com/sd

B Ready South Dakota http://www.breadysd.com/index.cfm

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Article Provided by Lake Co SD Emergency Management