Weather forecasts indicate the potential for snow and freezing rain in the Portland Metro area as well as the Columbia River Gorge overnight Wednesday and into Thursday. The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office would like to pass along the following winter driving tips and inclement weather advice;
1. Slow Down!! -- The primary cause of accidents in inclement weather are due to drivers traveling too fast and braking aggressively. Plan on extra drive time and remember posted speed limits are for dry road conditions, not snow and ice.
2. Leave extra room between your vehicle and other cars on the road. Everyone will need additional time and distance to stop in snow and ice, regardless of whether your vehicle has four wheel drive.
3. Drive slow and smooth. Sudden movements of the steering wheel or application of your brakes can cause your car to slide out of control during icy or wet conditions.
4. Be Prepared. Keep your vehicle's fuel tank full, carry a first aid kit, map, ice scraper, flashlight, tire chains, flares, tow and battery jumping cables, a folding shovel, de-icer, a blanket, winter gloves, a cell phone if you have one, and extra water and food for adults, children and pets in the event you are delayed. Remember to bring any medications that may need to be taken during the time you are away.
5. Have a plan. Make sure to tell someone where you will be traveling and update them on any changes or delays in your route.
6. Check conditions. Both road and weather conditions can change suddenly, make sure to have the most updated information possible before leaving home or work.
7. Stay home. Whenever possible, avoid traveling in severe inclement weather.
8. Check in. Make sure family and loved ones are safe and warm, and remember pets will also need additional shelter in severe weather conditions.
Warming centers are available throughout Multnomah County to those who may be without shelter. A complete list of shelters can be found by dialing 211 or at http://211info.org/emergency/.
If you see someone in need of shelter, please contact your local law enforcement agency by calling the non-emergency line at (503) 823-3333, or in the event of an emergency, dialing 911.
Our highest priority is always the safety of our community, please be cautious and aware as this severe storm moves through the area.
1. Slow Down!! -- The primary cause of accidents in inclement weather are due to drivers traveling too fast and braking aggressively. Plan on extra drive time and remember posted speed limits are for dry road conditions, not snow and ice.
2. Leave extra room between your vehicle and other cars on the road. Everyone will need additional time and distance to stop in snow and ice, regardless of whether your vehicle has four wheel drive.
3. Drive slow and smooth. Sudden movements of the steering wheel or application of your brakes can cause your car to slide out of control during icy or wet conditions.
4. Be Prepared. Keep your vehicle's fuel tank full, carry a first aid kit, map, ice scraper, flashlight, tire chains, flares, tow and battery jumping cables, a folding shovel, de-icer, a blanket, winter gloves, a cell phone if you have one, and extra water and food for adults, children and pets in the event you are delayed. Remember to bring any medications that may need to be taken during the time you are away.
5. Have a plan. Make sure to tell someone where you will be traveling and update them on any changes or delays in your route.
6. Check conditions. Both road and weather conditions can change suddenly, make sure to have the most updated information possible before leaving home or work.
7. Stay home. Whenever possible, avoid traveling in severe inclement weather.
8. Check in. Make sure family and loved ones are safe and warm, and remember pets will also need additional shelter in severe weather conditions.
Warming centers are available throughout Multnomah County to those who may be without shelter. A complete list of shelters can be found by dialing 211 or at http://211info.org/emergency/.
If you see someone in need of shelter, please contact your local law enforcement agency by calling the non-emergency line at (503) 823-3333, or in the event of an emergency, dialing 911.
Our highest priority is always the safety of our community, please be cautious and aware as this severe storm moves through the area.