With fall giving way to winter, here are some tips from area public safety officials to stay safe when driving in snow and on ice.
“As winter weather is creeping in, your safety is our priority,” the Marlborough Fire Department wrote in a Facebook post. “Please help us keep our community safe by practicing smart, cautious driving.”
According to that department and other local first responders, it’s important to prepare for winter weather before it arrives.
Checking wipers and fluid and keeping an emergency kit in the vehicle can help keep tricky situations safer. A winter emergency kit might include sand, a shovel, blankets, a flashlight and basic tools.
Keene Police Detective Lt. Joel Chidester, who investigates motor vehicle crashes for that department, said it’s also key to check tire tread and inflation.
Walpole Police Chief Justin Sanctuary echoed that, adding that winter tires or well-treaded all seasons can help on icy days.
Late on the evening of Sunday, Nov. 23, an SUV went off the road on Old Cheshire Turnpike in Walpole and rolled over during a brief snow squall. It was one of several crashes throughout the region that weekend as snow stuck in many places for the first time this season.
The driver and the vehicle’s two passengers were unharmed, according to Sanctuary, who noted it should be a reminder that it doesn’t take much snow on the ground to create slippery conditions.
That’s especially true early in the season before there’s salt out, he said.
Both the Marlborough Fire and Keene Police departments also encouraged people to slow down and leave more distance between vehicles in the winter — even drivers of cars that offer extra traction.
Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles can’t stop any faster than two-wheel drive vehicles, Keene police said in an email.
The Marlborough Fire Department said drivers should also avoid making sudden moves on snow or ice, instead braking, steering and accelerating gradually to avoid losing control or forcing other vehicles to make quick stops.
State law requires drivers to thoroughly clear snow or ice from their vehicles before driving. Failing to do so is punishable with a fine of up to $500 for a first offense, with higher penalties, including loss of license, for repeat offenses.
“Driving with reduced visibility through the windows and snow/ice on the roof is dangerous and unlawful,” Chidester said.
In New Hampshire, it’s also unlawful to not move over for emergency vehicles if there’s room to do so. That includes any vehicle with flashing blue, red or amber lights.
“If you see our emergency crews on the road, please slow down and move over,” the Marlborough Fire Department wrote in its Facebook post. “Your caution helps keep everyone safe — drivers and first responders alike.”
Abigail Ham can be reached at 603-355-8554 or aham@keenesentinel.com.
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