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Emergency Preparedness

Guide Book

DRIVING IN ADVERSE CONDITIONS

     As simple as it may sound, the obvious answer to driving during an emergency is:  AVOID BEING ON THE ROAD IF AT ALL POSSIBLE.  (In other words, DON'T!)

     We as humans are curious and like to know what is going on around us.  However, in some circumstances such as during an emergency, weather may make road conditions extremely hazardous.

     In poor weather conditions that could lead to an emergency situation such as the ice storm of 1998, motorists should stock their vehicle with emergency supplies and have alternate plans if the roads are too hazardous to travel.  During an emergency, it is not the time to drive around just to see what is going on outside the home or on the streets in the community.

     In most emergency situations, any and all drivers should get indoors as soon as possible and stay there until the danger is over.  Remember that emergency vehicles, such as police, fire, ambulance and municipal vehicles, will be responding to numerous calls brought on by the emergency situation.  Having any drivers or pedestrians outside unnecessarily will only add to an already serious situation.

     Over the course of an emergency or disaster, there can be a lot of frustration with the hardships many people have to face.  There may be the need to rush to the store for emergency supplies or to the first gas station that may have fuel.  Many drivers may not realize the danger at the time because they are preoccupied with and overwhelmed by the state of emergency.  Driver distractions can easily lead to a collision, so it is important to focus on the road conditions and operating the vehicle safely.  In light of the heightened emotional state of drivers during an emergency situation, this is no time for 'road rage' incidents.  It is important to drive courteously and be willing to help a fellow motorist if the need arises and it can be done safely.

     In many emergency situations, it is likely that the power will go out.  With this outage, it means that the street lights and traffic lights will not be functioning.

     The street light outage means that streets are darker than normal.  While driving in terrible weather or around fallen debris, it is much more difficult to see pedestrians who may be walking on the roadway.  Another area of concern exists when traffic lights are not working.  Many people have no idea what to do at a traffic light intersection, when the lights are not working.

Remember:  A TRAFFIC LIGHT INTERSECTION BECOMES A FOUR-WAY STOP WHEN THE LIGHT IS NOT WORKING.   

     The following are the rules of a four-way stop for the many people who are unsure of what to do in this case.  The first vehicle to arrive and stop has the right of way.  Always keep your wits about you for that one motorist who decides that with no lights, they don't have to stop.  You don't want to be the one they run into.

     In the event of a state of emergency, limit driving unless absolutely necessary, obey traffic laws, drive cautiously and follow any special instructions given by emergency personnel.  This will help to ensure you arrive safe and sound.