News : Winter Safety in Subzero Weather

There are some things that shouldn't have to be said.

But every year, in the midst of snowstorms, we have accidents, unnecessarily.

It's Iowa folks.

Take your time, and for goodness sake, don't pass someone if you can't see what's coming or where you're going.

The weather has been vicious this past week and a half. I'm starting to think that someone picked up the neighborhood and dropped us in Alaska.

With visibility down to zero at times, use your headlights when driving.

Allow more time to get to your destination than you think you will need.

Allow your car to warm up before heading out. Make sure that exhaust pipe hasn't been clogged with snow from backing into a pile of snow.

Dress warmly.

Make sure the KIDS are dressed warmly.

If you break down in this weather, you might not have a chance without proper protection.

Throw some extra sleeping bags in the car.

Make sure your cell phone is charged.

Be sure that someone not riding with you, knows where you are going and when you should arrive. (sorry, that's a mom rule...even if you're adults, let someone know where you are going if you're headed out of town.)

I can't remember the last time I saw a -50 windchill in a weather report, but I think that means be extra careful, more than usual, and for goodness sake, stay home if you can.

DON'T send the kids out to play, this is NOT kid friendly weather.

Please folks, let's not have any accidents in this frigid weather.

Be sure to give the snowplows extra room.

Give emergency vehicles a wide berth as well.

But most importantly, please, please, please, drive like the driver's education teacher is sitting right there in the front seat and be safe out there!