Listen to the Weather Report before heading out. It can be a life saver.

Pay attention to the weather terms used. Here are the most common Winter Weather Terms- Winter Storm Warning: Issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring. Winter Storm Warnings are usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin. Winter Storm Watch: Alerts the public to the possibility of a blizzard, heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet. Winter Storm Watches are usually issued 12 to 48 hours before the beginning of a Winter Storm. Winter Storm Outlook: Issued prior to a Winter Storm Watch. The Outlook is given when forecasters believe winter storm conditions are possible and are usually issued 3 to 5 days in advance of a winter storm. Blizzard Warning: Issued for sustained or gusty winds of 35 mph or more, and falling or blowing snow creating visibilities at or below ¼ mile; these conditions should persist for at least three hours. Lake Effect Snow Warning: Issued when heavy lake effect snow is imminent or occurring. Wind Chill Warning: Issued when wind chill temperatures are expected to be hazardous to life within several minutes of exposure. Wind Chill Advisory: Issued when wind chill temperatures are expected to be a significant inconvenience to life with prolonged exposure, and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to hazardous exposure. Winter Weather Advisories: Issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and sleet which will cause significant inconveniences and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations.

Bad weather in winter driving requires you to be extra vigilant and prepared, but the most important tip for winter driving is slow down! Always allow plenty of time to get where you are going, and get off the road before you get stuck by severe weather.

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES: The Weather Channel http://www.weather.com/activities/driving/drivingsafety/drivingsafetytips/snow.html?from=iForecast West Virginia Department of Transportation http://www.wvdot.com/6_motorists/6d_winterdriving.htm Oregon Department of Transportation http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/COMM/winterdriving.shtml

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