Gannett’s Courier-Post ran the following weather tips for those of us affaceted by today’s snow storm. Be careful out there. [To comment: larry@larrylitwin.com]
Here are tips on coping with winter weather:
Road conditions
Check on road conditions by going to the state Department of Transportation’s website for up-to-date traffic information and images from live traffic cameras. Go to www.state.nj.us /transportation and click on Commuter Information and then click on Real Time Traffic information.
You can also visit www.nws.noaa.gov for up-to-date weather information.
Driving safety
Keep an emergency kit in your trunk in case your car breaks down. The kit should include: a snow shovel, ice scraper, jumper cables, tools, flashlight with fresh batteries, paper towels or rags, bag of rock salt or cat litter for added traction, blanket, warm clothes, gloves, bottled water and food, extra washer fluid, oil and antifreeze.
Keep your car’s gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
If you get stuck in your car:
— Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety.
— Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
— Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won’t back up in the car.
— Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so you can be seen.
— As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
— Keep one window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.
Home safety
Keep an emergency kit at home. The kit should include: several days’ worth of food that needs no cooking or refrigeration, such as bread, crackers, cereal, canned foods and dried food, baby food and formula, bottled water (five gallons per person) in case your pipes freeze or rupture, any medicine you may need, portable radio and flashlights with fresh batteries.
Important numbers for Southern New Jersey. Check in your local area.
New Jersey Transit: (800) 772-2222
PATCO Hi-Speedline: (856) 772-6900
Atlantic City Electric: (800) 833-7476
PSE&G: (800) 436-7734