For Immediate Release

Friday, Dec. 4, 2015

Contact: Chief Richard Kane
Phone: 603-772-1212
Email: rkane@exeternh.gov

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Exeter Police Remind Residents to Travel Safely During the Winter Months

EXETER— With winter quickly approaching, Chief Richard Kane and the Exeter Police Department would like to remind all residents to travel safely during the upcoming months as inclement weather becomes more frequent.

The Federal Highway Administration reported in 2014 that each year over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 people are injured in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavements.

“Winter can be a dangerous time of the year to be on the roads,” Chief Kane said. “It’s always a good idea to prep yourself and your vehicle for snow storms, icy conditions and rain. Remember to take your time on the road and consider stocking your vehicle with emergency supplies so you’ll be prepared if an accident does occur.”

To keep travelers safe, Chief Kane encourages residents to follow safety tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Remember to always wear a seat belt — it’s the law
• Keep your gas tank close to full
• Turn on your lights to see and be seen
• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights before driving
• Do not text or engage in any other activities that may distract you while driving
• Leave plenty of room for stopping when behind vehicles
• If roads are hazardous, avoid driving if possible. Wait until road and weather conditions improve before venturing out in your vehicle.
• Drive slowly and obey the speed limit

Remember to always plan ahead

• Get your car serviced now to check for leaks, bad worn hoses, or other needed parts, repairs and replacements.
• Check your battery and cooling system to ensure both are running efficiently
• Fill your windshield washer reservoir and use “no-freeze” fluid
• Check your windshield wipers and defrosters
• Inspect your tires and consider changing over to snow tires or replacing old ones
• Plan your travel and route and give yourself ample time to get to your destination safely
• Stock your vehicle with items you will need to clean off your windshield and any supplies that would be necessary in an emergency (jumper cables, flashlight, blankets)
• Learn what to do if you are stopped or stalled in winter weather — stay with your car, don’t over exert yourself and clear the exhaust pipe if you’re running your vehicle to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

For more information on winter travel safety tips, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration online here, or call the Exeter Police Department at 603-772-1212.