As winter blankets North Dakota in snow, Burke-Divide Electric Cooperative reminds members to stay safe, particularly when traveling. Remember these tips for safe winter travel:

Before you leave

  • Check road conditions BEFORE you travel. Consider postponing nonessential travel until the roads are cleared.
  • Carry a cellphone that’s fully charged.
  • Let someone know when you depart, your route and expected arrival time.
  • Dress according to weather conditions. Keep dry and wear clothing in layers.
  • Always leave with a full fuel tank.
  • Make sure everything is functioning properly on your vehicle. Tires should have all-season treads and be in good condition.
  • Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition. Keep the windshield washer reservoir filled with antifreeze solvent.
  • Check the radiator, heater core and all hoses that carry antifreeze solution to make sure they are in good condition and free of leaks.Emergencies can happen when you least expect them, so be sure to carry a winter survival kit in your vehicle.

On the road

  • Turn on your lights. This will increase your visibility to other motorists and snowplow operators. Brush snow from your car that could cover your lights or create visibility problems.
  • Slow down and drive according to the conditions.
  • Never drive through “whiteouts” or “snow fog” caused by wind or plowing snow. Wait until you can see.
  • Stay back at least five car lengths behind the snowplow; snowplow operators will pull over when it is safe to allow traffic to pass.
  • Never use cruise control on wet or icy roadways.

If you are stranded

  • Stay with your vehicle.
  • Run the engine sparingly. Start with 15 minutes every hour and adjust if needed.
  • Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow.
  • Keep your feet off the floor if the heater is not on.
  • Never go to sleep with the engine running.
  • Tie a colorful banner on the car antenna.
  • Move all your emergency supplies from the trunk to the interior of the car as soon as you realize you will be staying for a while. Put on warm clothing now, before you get cold. It is easier to stay warm than it is to regain lost warmth. Loosen tight clothing so body heat can circulate.

Pack a survival kit

  • Several blankets and warm clothing, such as a parka, boots, heavy socks, mittens and ski mask.
  • A source of heat, such as a multiple wick candle can heater. It is best to also have matches to light your candle, because some lighters won’t work in extreme cold.
  • A flashlight with extra batteries.
  • Non-perishable food and water.
  • Bright red or orange cloth to mark your vehicle.
  • Repair tools such as pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers and a pocket knife.
  • Tire chains, booster cables, tow rope, warning devices and a container of sand or cat litter.
  • Snow shovel, broom and ice scraper.
  • First-aid kit.
  • Cellphone and charger.