Though it is still officially fall, the blanket of snow that covered Charles County Dec. 5 means winter weather has arrived. The Charles County Sheriff's Office wants to remind citizens to be extremely cautious when traveling in this kind of weather.
"The best possible way to handle the snow is to stay home but since that isn't always possible, the most important tip to remember is to drive slowly," said Charles County Sheriff Frederick E. Davis. "If you don't rush and you give yourself plenty of room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, you have the best chance of preventing a crash."
Here are some other tips the Sheriff's Office reminds citizens of:
* Always give driving your full time and attention - do not let cell phones, the radio or anything else distract you from driving safely.
* Always wear your seatbelt. If you are involved in a crash, it is the best way to prevent injury.
* Always clear all of your windows of snow and ice. A small patch on the driver's side of the windshield does not provide adequate visibility.
* Always clear as much of the snow from your roof, trunk and hood as possible. Blowing snow or ice is not only dangerous when you're trying to see through it, but it's also hazardous to your fellow motorists who could be struck by it.
* Always clear the snow and ice from your headlights and tail lights. Not only do you need to see, but other motorists need to see you.
* Always keep your windshield washer reservoir filled with cleaner or antifreeze made for the job. Don't forget to clean the salt and dried road spray from your headlights and taillights.
* Keep an eye on your tire pressure - cold weather causes air loss in them.
The Sheriff's Office also reminds motorists that is it is not only unsafe to leave your car running and unattended to let it warm up, it is also against the law. Doing so may result in a $60 fine and provides an theft opportunity for a criminal.