Winter weather brings challenges, students urged to prepare

In Wyoming, the weather can change with a blink of an eye. While Wyomingites are used to driving in treacherous conditions, no one is immune to the dangers of winter roads, no matter how jacked up our trucks are.

According to the National Weather Service “fast-changing weather conditions can be a matter of life or death when we are on the road”. They also advise the following:

Checking the conditions before every journey and planning for the worst is crucial during these chilly months. Getting a vehicle serviced while the roads are still dry is extremely important. Get the tires checked, ask the mechanic about wipers, defrosters and any other concerns. A quick service and conversation may seem inconvenient now, but is nothing compared to what could happen if students ignore a car’s needs.

Stocking the vehicle is also vital. Always have an ice scraper, jumper cables, blankets, coats, sand or any other abrasive material, a cell phone charger, and any important medication. Snacks like granola and water bottles could also decide whether a student survives or not if they end up stranded. Markers and flares are also helpful when a phone is out of service.

So, what should students do if they get stranded? First, clear the exhaust pipe. Students will need to run the vehicle for warmth and if the pipe is covered it’s only a matter of time before they pass out and pass away. Try to find service to call for help. Overexertion can be more dangerous than sitting and waiting. Students will be pumped full of adrenaline and may be tempted to run far and wide to find service.

Stay near the vehicle, stay calm and stay aware. Bundle up and set markers around the vehicle. Even in the most remote locations hunters, sheriffs or even concerned parents are more likely to find someone if they make their location bright and distinguishable. Speaking of concerned parents, students should always let them know when they leave a location, where they’re going and which way they take.

If for some reason a student can’t tell a parent, they should tell someone else they trust. It is imperative that someone knows the route so they can get the help needed. A quick text can be the difference between someone shivering for days or waiting an hour or so for help.

Many students live out of town and need to take extra precaution in case of a storm.

“I live 15 miles out of town. It takes me about a half an hour to get home, said Laramie Holst. “I stock my car with an extra pair of skivvies, a blanket or two, a shovel, and some munchies. Just in case I get stuck.”

Preparation can really save someone if something happens, but prevention should always be the goal. Students should drive the speed they are comfortable with.

Local police officer Troy Skeens advises, “If it’s snowing or low visibility due to fog or possible black ice, plan ahead and slow down”. He also mentions that going the speed limit on the interstate is far too fast for winter weather! Turning on the hazards isn’t embarrassing, it ensures the safety of everyone on the road. Always be aware and cautious of other vehicles, but be especially aware during scary weather. The road can be unpredictable, be sure there’s always a back up plan for any situation.