SPOKANE, Wash. – If you are driving through across any of the passes this time of year, you want to make sure that you have all the safety supplies needed in case winter weather strikes.
Ryan Overton, with the Washington State Department of Transportation – East (WSDOT), says that list starts before you leave. It’s important to check any traction advisories and mountain pass conditions before you leave.
Anytime you travel through the pass this time of year you are required to have chains somewhere in your vehicle.
Overton says it is also a good idea to take care of all of the regular maintenance for your car. So, make sure you have a full tank of gas, change your oil and check your tire pressure.
In case of an emergency, here are also some things that you should bring:
extra blanketextra watersnonperishable snackssnow shovelwindow scraperextra phone charger
All of these items could help you out in a pinch.
Overton is also reminding the public to slow down when driving in inclement weather. Respect snow plows and remember that it’s safer to drive slowly behind them than to speed in front of them on a slippery road.
