STATE OF CONNECTICUT Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Division of State Police PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE

Reuben F. Bradford Commissioner

Colonel Danny R. Stebbins Deputy Commissioner, Division of State Police

For immediate release January 21, 2014

STATE POLICE PREPARE FOR WINTER STORM

Motorists encouraged to stay off roadways during storm if possible
With another significant snow event of the 2013-14 winter on its way, the Connecticut State Police is working to ensure safety on all highways and roads across the state. State Troopers will be in place on patrol on roads and highways, with any additional required Troopers on call for immediate response. Specialty emergency State Police vehicles will be deployed and available across Connecticut in the event they are required for any emergency. A snowstorm that is expected to drop up to ten inches of powder will likely lead to slippery and treacherous roadways in Connecticut. Trucks and passenger cars may become disabled and unable to move, blocking lanes of the road and preventing DOT trucks from treating and plowing the highways. As the storm intensifies, State Police recommend that motorists stay off the roads during the storm to prevent major traffic issues. If it is truly necessary for motorists to go out during this anticipated storm, the Connecticut State Police recommend that you ensure that your vehicle is storm ready with proper tires, adequate gas and windshield wipers in optimum condition. If you must travel during the storm, provide your route of travel details to a family member or friend and check media reports prior to traveling to gather the latest updates on road conditions and possible closures. Utilize the headlights on your vehicle during any storm its the law! In addition, motorists should have a fully-charged cell phone, bottles of water, nourishment bars or other non-perishable food, extra clothes, a shovel, flares and blankets in case of emergency. During a snow event, reducing speed and expanding distances between cars is an absolute necessity for safe driving. If you become stranded in your vehicle in winter weather, stay with your vehicle and do not try to walk to safety. Call 911 from your cell phone for help. Run the motor for about 10 minutes each hour for heat. Open a window slightly for fresh air and make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked. -end L.t J. Paul Vance www.ct.gov/despp 1111 Country Club Road, Middletown, CT, 06457

Tel: (860) 685-8230 Fax: (860) 685-8301 An Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer