San Antonio Prepares for Icy Weather: Essential Safety Tips

News Summary

As icy weather approaches San Antonio, residents are advised to prepare for the chilling conditions. With safety recommendations from AAA Texas, it’s crucial to check tire conditions, remain calm on slick roads, and consider staying home if possible. Ensure vehicle readiness and communicate safe driving practices with family members. Be on alert for icy spots, and stay bundled up as temperatures drop. The Texas Department of Transportation will treat roads to minimize hazards, but caution is essential. Check for possible business closures and school delays before heading out.

San Antonio Prepares for Icy Weather: Safety Tips You Can’t Ignore!

Attention, residents of San Antonio! A chilly chill is in the air as winter weather rolls in this week. With predictions for icy conditions starting Monday evening, it’s the perfect time for everyone to gear up and make sure they are safe on the roads. AAA Texas is stepping in with some important safety recommendations for driving during this frosty spell.

Check Those Tires!

First things first, let’s talk tires. Many vehicles out there are rolling on tires that are practically bald, which is just like driving on slick surfaces anyway. Make sure your tires have enough tread! Driving on worn-out tires can be incredibly dangerous! Before hitting the roads, give your tires a good once-over. It’s a simple step that can make a world of difference when dealing with slippery roads.

Stay Calm on Slick Roads

If you encounter a slippery spot while driving, it’s crucial to remain calm. Instead of panicking, remember to steer in the direction you want to go. Slamming on those brakes can lead you into a spin and that’s a risk you want to avoid at all costs! Remember, just keep it cool and gentle on the steering wheel.

Mind the Big Rigs

When driving near large trucks, such as semi-trucks and 18-wheelers, be especially cautious. These big guys have a harder time stopping quickly and are more likely to jackknife in icy conditions. Remember, if you’re driving a smaller vehicle, keep your distance. Many drivers are reminded that being cut off by smaller cars can create dangerous situations for larger vehicles.

Stay Home if Possible

With the icy weather slated to move in, the Texas Department of Public Safety suggests that if your travel is not absolutely essential, it might be best to stay put. Sometimes, it’s just not worth risking your safety when conditions get treacherous.

Prep Your Vehicle

Before braving the cold, it’s wise to do a little winter prep on your vehicle. Check your tire pressure, coolant levels, and the condition of your battery. It’s a good habit to get into, especially during the colder months.

Talk to Your Family

And let’s not forget the younger drivers in your household! It’s important to communicate safe driving habits. Make sure everyone knows what to do in tough situations, and equip them with the right knowledge to navigate icy roads safely.

Emergency Ready!

And while we’re at it, how prepared are you for an emergency? Keeping a cell phone charger, a blanket, and a few other emergency essentials in your vehicle can save the day if you find yourself stuck. No one plans to get stranded, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Watch for Icy Spots

As temperatures begin to drop, be on the lookout for areas that are more likely to freeze first, such as overpasses, bridges, and shaded regions. Drive slowly and cautiously; it’s better to be a tortoise than a hare in this icy weather.

Bundle Up, San Antonio!

As we prepare for the cold snap, meteorologists are predicting lows below freezing. Everyone needs to bundle up and minimize outdoor exposure, as frostbite and hypothermia can become serious risks. Keep an eye on your plumbing as well and consider opening cabinet doors under sinks to keep those pipes safe from freezing.

Head’s Up on Road Treatments

Good news for drivers! The Texas Department of Transportation plans to treat the roadways with a special brine solution to mitigate the icy conditions. This should help keep some of those dangerous slick spots at bay.

Business Closures and School Delays

As of Tuesday, San Antonio experienced traces of snow and sleet with temperatures remaining quite chilly. With icy spots popping up around town, many businesses decided to close or delay their openings. If you’re planning to head out, check ahead so you won’t run into any unexpected surprises.

So, San Antonio, take these recommendations to heart! Stay warm, drive safely, and let’s all do our part to navigate this winter weather together!