Winter Travel Resources

View/Download these Tips/Reminders for Traveling Safely this Winter

• Winter Driving Safety Reminders (pdf) NEW
• Slippery When Wet (pdf) NEW
• Winter Weather Words to Know
• Winter Driving Safety Shelf Cards (pdf)
• Sharing Winter Roads With Snowplows (pdf)
• Prepare Your Vehicle and Yourself for Winter Driving
• Promo Packet of Winter Driving Info for Printing NEW
• Vehicle Survival Kit (pdf)

Links to Winter Highway Safety Info

• 511 Nebraska Traveler Info Web Page
  (this page has links to current radar, weather & highway cameras)
• General Weather Info
  (includes links to current weather, radar & forecasts from several sources)
• Nebraska Highway and Street Cams
• NDOR General Travel Info Page
• Weather in Surrounding States by Phone
• Weather in Surrounding States by Web

During inclement weather it is advisable that travel be delayed until highway maintenance activities have been performed. Always drive at speeds reasonable for the conditions of the highway.

DO NOT rely on any of this information as the sole basis for travel decisions. Before you travel in bad weather, check several resources to gather as much information as possible about the weather and road conditions. You and you alone are responsible for making the final decision to travel during periods of bad weather.

The Nebraska Department of Roads is not responsible for the travel decisions YOU make, or for situations that occur as a result of your travel decisions.

Winter Words to Know

Winter Storm Watch - A winter storm is possible or approaching

Winter Storm Warning - A winter storm is imminent.

Snow Advisory - One to five inches is expected.

Blowing and Drifting Snow Advisory - Visibility can be at or below a quarter mile.

Wind Chill Advisory - Wind chills of -30 to -35 are expected.

Freezing Rain/Sleet Advisory - An accumulation of freezing rain or sleet could make exposed surfaces dangerous or cause damage.

Prepare the vehicle:

• Get a complete tune-up in the fall. Check your tire pressure at least once a month.
• Have your exhaust system carefully checked for leaks that could send carbon monoxide into your vehicle.
• Check your radiator and hoses for cracks and leaks. Check anti-freeze and heater.
• Make sure wipers are in good condition, and fill up on winter washer fluid.

Prepare the driver:

• Make sure you have enough fuel. Keep at least half a tank.

• Clear all snow from the hood (especially the air intake vents), roof, windows and lights. Clear all windows of fog.

• If you are forced to stop at the side of the road, put on your emergency flashers.

• Carrying a cell phone gives you an edge in an emergency. A car charger for the phone battery, or an extra charged battery is also a good idea. But never use the phone while you are driving the car.

• Give yourself extra time to travel, plan your route and let someone know your destination and when you will be expected.

• Keep to the main roads. Avoid passing another vehicle when weather conditions are bad.

• Wear warm clothing that does not restrict movement. Dressing in layers is always a good idea.

• Pack a winter survival kit and keep it in the trunk of the car at all times.

  • Recommended items:
    o Shovel
    o Sand or kitty litter - traction mats - tow chain
    o Warning light or road flares and flashlight
    o Extra clothing, hat, scarf, footwear and blankets
    o Emergency food pack and first aid kit
    o Booster cables
    o Ice scraper and brush
    o Extra windshield washer fluid
    o Fuel line antifreeze

If you become trapped in a storm don’t panic! The following steps can save your life:

• Avoid overexertion and exposure. Shoveling and bitter cold can kill.

• Stay in your car. You won’t get lost and you’ll have shelter.

• Keep fresh air in your car. Crack open a window on the side sheltered from the wind.

• Run your engine sparingly. Beware of exhaust fumes and the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Ensure the tailpipe is not blocked by snow.

• Set out a warning light or flares.

• Exercise your limbs – keep moving and don’t fall asleep.

• Wear a hat, as you can lose up to 60 per cent of your body heat through your head.