This winter season it’s important to remember to drive safely when the weather is snowy, icy and cold. If it’s snowing outside here is the first tip: don’t drive if you don’t have to. Stay home and only go out if necessary.

If you do find yourself driving on snow-covered roads, here are a few safety tips: drive slowly and don’t accelerate or decelerate too quickly; keep a distance of five to six seconds between you and the car in front of you; know your brakes—it takes longer to stop on icy roads; don’t power up hills, try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top; reduce your speed and proceed downhill slowly.

And just because you think you are a good driver doesn’t mean you will be safe. The snow provides unique circumstances that you can’t always prepare for and remember that others on the roads might not be as confident. 

Secondly, in case of an emergency it’s good to be prepared. Create a safety kit that you can keep in your car at all times: an ice scraper and brush; a bright flashlight with extra batteries; a blanket; and first aid kit. 

If there is an emergency always stay with your vehicle, do not try to walk far distances especially if it’s snowing and visibility is low. As we recently reported, the Town of Callicoon Highway Department had to contend with some dangerous winter conditions—including a car left in the roadway, and snow pushed on to the road from driveways. 

The highway crews work hard for us—let’s not make their jobs any more difficult. We thank them for their efforts as always. 

And lastly, “drive sober or get pulled over!” Law enforcement will be out in the coming weeks during the holidays and New Year’s Eve. 

Of course, we take this time to celebrate but we don’t want to have to mourn a loss of life from rash decisions after a night out. 

You will not only be putting yourself and others in danger, but you can get tickets and face the consequences on your license. 

When it comes to driving this time of year: better to be safe than sorry!