By: Donovan W. Mann – [email protected]
Humboldt, IA – The local law enforcement is urging readiness and caution as winter weather and slick roads begin to occur.
Snow and other types of wintry precipitation are beginning to fall and will inevitably become more frequent as the season changes. With this comes more hazardous road conditions. Humboldt County Sheriff Dean Kruger provides some advice when navigating the slick roads this winter.
Kruger recommends extra caution and time to get from point A to point B. “Be careful” the sheriff says while recommending drivers listen to local road reports. He advises that workers call ahead to their work place to see if someone already there can provide information about road conditions as well. The Law Enforcement Center will be able to provide information as well but their information will be that which comes from the National Weather Service.
The sheriff has some advice for those who might find themselves stuck due to the winter conditions. Those stuck can always call the LEC to let the local law enforcement know their location. Kruger says “please have like a winter survival kit with you” including things such as extra blankets and nonperishable food. It is also important that a driver assures they have enough gas and a charger for their cell phone. The sheriff says that local law enforcement will try to help those who are stuck. He does recognize there are “no guarantees” because they are “only human as well.”
While a lot can be going through the mind of a driver who is losing control of their vehicle on a slick road Sheriff Kruger provides some advice to remember. “The one thing they always say is don’t hit your brakes.” Once a slide begins and a driver slams on their brakes it can make the situation worst when brakes lock. Once the lockup occurs a driver will likely lose their ability to steer out of the slide and will continue in the slide. Kruger recommends tapping brakes and trying to counter steer out of the spin or slide to avoid total loss of control.
While icy slick roads can create a lot of uncertainty drivers can put a lot in their control by being prepared. If a driver in Humboldt County becomes stuck and needs assistance they are encouraged to use the non-emergency number at 515-332-2471.