Representative Chris Tuck

Representative
Chris Tuck

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October 8, 2016

Preparing for Winter

Dear Neighbors,

It’s good to get an early start preparing for wintertime in Alaska. I encourage you to take a look at the materials below to help you and your family have a safe and enjoyable winter season on the roads and at home.

Winter Road Maintenance Information

As winter approaches, the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities has reported that we should be prepared for longer wait times for local roads to be plowed. The ADOT&PF road priority map is available online at http://dot.alaska.gov/stwdmno/wintermap/

The delays will particularly affect Priority 3 roads, which support most residential areas. In the past, ADOT could clear Priority 3 roads on the first day of snow/ice with authorized overtime. This schedule is no longer in effect because overtime is reserved for Priority 1 roads and the most urgent life/safety needs.

Winterizing Your Vehicle

Your vehicle should be properly equipped for winter driving conditions and for potential emergencies. While drivers are advised to keep their vehicles in top operating condition all year round, it is especially important to get vehicles winterized. Read your owner’s manual and check the following: tire pressure, defroster & heater, battery & lights, motor oil, antifreeze, belts, hoses, filters, brakes, brake fluid, wiper blades and windshield washer fluid. A kit with extra provisions is also encouraged.

Studded Tires Allowed Since October 1

Since October 1st, all drivers are permitted to operate a motor vehicle with studded tires on paved highways and roads. Even though the average date of Anchorage’s first measurable snowfall is October 16th, winter may come earlier. Last year’s first snowfall hit Anchorage streets on September 29th.

Helpful Safe Driving Tips

Drive with headlights on so others can see you
Drive for the conditions; reduce speeds and allow extra time to reach your destination
Know how long it will take for plows to reach your road by checking the priority level
Watch for snow removal equipment and give them plenty of room. Stay at least 200 feet back and don’t pass on the right. Snow removal equipment can cause white out conditions when driving too close
Leave plenty of room for stopping when roads are wet or icy
Wait it out: don’t rush into driving through adverse weather conditions

For a detailed list of driving tips offered by ADOT&PF, go to:
http://dot.alaska.gov/winter_driving_tips.shtml

Stay Safe and Healthy in Winter

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website offers many helpful suggestions for staying safe and healthy at home and while traveling:
http://www.cdc.gov/features/winterweather/

Below is a useful graphic which will also help with winter preparedness:

a useful graphic which will also help with winter preparedness

Staying Informed

There are many resources available while navigating winter roads. Here are a few helpful links:

Driving conditions (or call 511): http://511.alaska.gov/alaska511/mappingcomponent/index
Road condition live webcams:
http://roadweather.alaska.gov/iways/roadweather/forms/AreaSelectForm.html
DOT&PF Travel Resources:
http://dot.alaska.gov/traveler.shtml

I hope this information will be of use to you in keeping you and you families safe.

I’m here for you, so please keep in touch on matters important to you and your family!

Warm regards,

      Chris Tuck
      Alaska State Representative
      District 23 - Anchorage

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