| RELEASE: CONTACT: |
IMMEDIATE Mike Salmon (703)383-2055 mike.salmon@vdot.virginia.gov Jennifer McCord (703)383-2850 jennifer.mccord@vdot.virginia.gov |
NR08-21 Feb. 21, 2008 |
VDOT READY FOR ICE AND SNOW
The Virginia Department of Transportation is preparing for a wintry mix of snow and sleet tonight with 1152 salt trucks standing ready to treat roads in Arlington, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun Counties. Crews will mobilize beginning at 7 p.m. tonight.By midnight, all of the ramps and bridges at the Springfield Interchange will be pre-treated with liquid magnesium chloride, and salt. Fifteen salt trucks and four tankers are now dedicated to the interchange area for all storms. This plan is now standard procedure for all future snow and ice storms.
VDOT will deploy 172 trucks on the interstates, 536 trucks in Fairfax County, 153 trucks in Loudoun County, and 272 trucks in Prince William County. VDOT is also prepared to sand hills, curves and known trouble spots in subdivisions if necessary.
VDOT urges motorists to observe the following winter driving tips:
Make sure your vehicle is winter ready.
Keep an emergency driving kit in your car and wear your seatbelt.
Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles.
Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges.
When driving on ice, don’t slam on your brakes. Travel gently. Turn slowly. Sudden changes can cause your car to spin out of control.
Know the conditions! Before heading out, call 511 for the latest road condition information or visit
www.VirginiaDOT.org
