ADOT crews are ready to work around the clock to clear highways of snow and ice as quickly as possible. Drivers should plan ahead for winter conditions and use extreme caution if planning to travel into affected areas. ADOT recommends drivers avoid traveling once the storm creates icy conditions and to wait until conditions improve.

Slow down, be patient and drive safely. Plan for extra travel time.

Be alert: ice forms on bridges first and is hard to see.

When driving behind a snowplow, stay back at least a few car lengths until it’s safe to pass or until the plow pulls off the road. If you think you’re traveling too close to a plow, you probably are. Be safe and stay back!

Notify someone of your travel route, destination and projected arrival time.

Carry an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle that includes blankets, extra clothes, a flashlight, an ice scraper, a shovel, sand for traction, a fully charged cell phone and hazard warning lights or reflectors.

Brake slowly to avoid any panic braking or jerking the steering wheel.

Increase the distance between you and the traffic ahead.

Carry plenty of food and water and all necessary medications.

Carry tire chains, snow cables or snow tires.

Wear warm clothes to protect you during extended time periods in cold temperatures.

Additional information can be found on ADOT’s “Know Snow” website at http://www.azdot.gov/KnowSnow. The website also contains downloadable snow maps of snowplowing schedules and routes.