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Back to Article List Cape May County Office of Emergency Management Encourages Winter Weather Preparedness Release Date: January 04, 2010 January 4, 2010 Cape May County Office of Emergency Management Encourages  Winter Weather Preparedness Cape May Court House – Cape May County Freeholder Vice-Director Ralph E. Sheets, Jr. and Frank McCall, Director of the Cape May County Office of Emergency Management encourage all residents to prepare for harsh winter weather. Freeholder Sheets said, “In light of the severe weather we experienced in mid-December and the cold temperatures expected for this week, our residents should take time to prepare their homes, vehicles, and discuss with family members the potential effects of winter storms as well as learning about how to manage some of the winter season’s challenging conditions.” The following is a list of general winter weather preparedness tips provided by the State Office of Emergency Management: Travel Items to Include: All cars should be equipped with road maps, a cell phone, a shovel, a windshield scraper, a towrope, booster cables, and a brightly colored cloth to use as a distress signal.  A bag of sand or non-clumping cat litter to spread under tires if stuck in snow is also recommended. Proper Travel Notification: Drivers should inform someone that they are taking a trip, where they are going, the routes that will be traveled and when they are expected to return. Upon reaching their destination, drivers should call to report arrival.  If traveling a long distance, please remember to fill up on fuel prior to making your trip.  While traveling, stop frequently to refill the fuel tank. The breaks will help drivers stay alert. On the Road: Always follow the rules of the road and adhere to the following guidelines: • Always buckle your seat belt. • Brake properly to avoid skidding.  If driving on snow or ice, start slowly and brake gently. Begin braking early when approaching an intersection. • If the vehicle starts to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes.  Steer into the direction of the skid until regaining traction, and then straighten the vehicle.  For vehicles with antilock brakes, apply steady pressure. • Visibility and speed: o In fog, drive with headlights set on dim or use fog lights. o In rain, fog, snow or sleet, stay within the limits of your vision. If it is too difficult to see, pull off the road and stop. o Drive slowly and increase following distance. Vehicle speed should adjust for conditions and match the flow of traffic. o Watch for slick spots. Be physically and mentally prepared to react. Additionally, a winter weather safety guide can be found on the official New Jersey Office of Emergency Management website at http://www.ready.nj.gov/plan/winter.html.  Director McCall added, “Being proactive, prepared and informed will help to keep everyone safe even during the worst weather conditions.” Also, to stay informed about the latest developments in Cape May County, visit capemaycountygov.net or sign up to be FAN of Cape May County Government of Facebook

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