OFFICE OF THE SHERIFF
Sheriff Curtis L. Landers
225 W. Olive Street
Newport, Oregon 97365
Phone: (541) 265-4277
Fax: (541) 265-4926

TIP OF THE WEEK - - - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: January 22, 2018

Contact: Sheriff Curtis Landers
541-265-0652
clanders@co.lincoln.or.us

WINTER DRIVING - PART 2

Last week's Tip of the Week focused on being prepared for getting out on the road in winter weather. This week week's tips from ODOT's Oregon Winter Driving Guide are about how to drive safely in icy and snowy weather conditions.

ADJUST YOUR DRIVING FOR THE CONDITIONS
* DON'T use cruise control in wet, icy or snowy weather.
* Position your hands on the steering wheel at 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock, or lower.
* If you lose traction, gradually slow down. DON'T slam on the brakes!
* The key to keeping your vehicle under maximum control on slippery surfaces is smoothly steering, braking and accelerating. Steer just enough to follow the path you intend to go.
* Be prepared to handle potentially dangerous situations by thinking "15 seconds" ahead about your options. These include controlling your speed, changing lanes or communicating with others on the road.
* Use extra caution when driving on bridges or concrete highways because ice forms first on these surfaces.
* Avoid driving through snowdrifts. They can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
* Slow down in advance of shaded areas (especially curves) where ice and snow are the last to melt.
* Finally, chain up early! Weather conditions can deteriorate rapidly and unexpectedly at this time of year.

There is also a handy checklist in ODOT's Driving Guide to help you be prepared for winter driving before heading out on the road.

For more information and tips, visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and Like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff's Office -- Oregon.

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Submitted by:
Kathy Manning, Administrative Assistant
kmanning@co.lincoln.or.us
Ph: 541-265-0652