The long awaited season of autumn has finally arrived in Bradley County. This time of year brings along some very special moments that we can all look forward to year-round: meeting a cool breeze as you walk outside, sitting by a bonfire with friends and loved ones, layering up on bleachers to watch football, stepping on crunchy leaves along the sidewalk, watching as the trees become more and more colorful each day.
It’s a beautiful time, but unfortunately, often short lived as the winter months are just around the corner. As temperatures begin to drop, it is important to keep road safety in mind for the protection of yourself and loved ones.
So, as we enjoy all that the autumn season has to offer, let us also take advantage of this time to plan ahead by making sure our vehicles and young drivers are prepared for the winter months.
In preparation for the winter road conditions, the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office offers these safety tips:
Plan ahead by making sure that your vehicle is winter ready. Invest in snow chains for your tires and ensure that all engine fluids are topped off.
Plan ahead to defrost your windshield before you drive. Find a reliable ice scraper for your windshield and never operate a motor vehicle if road visibility is impaired.
Plan ahead for the rare event of getting stranded in your vehicle. Make sure that it is stocked with a warm blanket, water, snacks, a first aid kit and a phone charger.
Plan ahead for road conditions to change as the temperature drops. Double your efforts as a safe driver by maintaining a reasonable distance from other vehicles on the road.
Plan ahead for how to help prepare any young drivers in your life. Make sure that they know how to identify ice on the roads and know what to do in the event of an emergency.
As autumn fades and winter arrives, planning ahead is one of the many ways that we can all contribute to the safety of our roads and our community. As always, let’s work together to create a better and safer Bradley County.
Sheriff Steve Lawson