ALEA advises caution during oncoming winter weather events

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is advising citizens to use extra caution during the next few days as extreme winter weather events are expected for south Alabama. 

“We recognize that winter weather can pose unique challenges for our Alabama communities, particularly in those areas where snow and ice are rare,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “Our primary goal is to keep our citizens safe. Reducing unnecessary travel during dangerous conditions is crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring first responders can perform their duties efficiently.”

ALEA sent out a statement with the following tips: 

1. **Avoid Unnecessary Travel:** If you do not need to be on the road, please stay home. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly, and driving is strongly discouraged during inclement weather.

2. **Monitor Weather Updates:** Stay informed by checking local weather reports from your trusted news source, and updates from ALEA and the National Weather Service.

3. **Prepare Your Vehicle:** If you must travel, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready. Check your tires, battery, wiper blades, and fluids. Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes blankets, snacks, water, and a flashlight.

More from this section

Pope visits Istanbul's Blue Mosque

Ultra-Orthodox military conscription row reignites in Israel

Ukraine negotiators to hold talks in US on plan to end war

4. **Drive Slowly and Cautiously:** If you must go out, reduce your speed, increase the distance between your vehicle and others, and avoid sudden stops or sharp turns. Additionally, avoid using cruise control as steering sensitivity can change on icy roads, leading to loss of vehicle control.

5. **Stay Alert:** Be aware of your surroundings and watch for ice on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, which can freeze more quickly than other surfaces.

6. **Heed Road Closure Signs:** If authorities have closed roads or issued travel restrictions, comply with these warnings. They are in place to protect public safety.

7. **Use Headlights:** In low visibility conditions, ensure your headlights are on, and keep them clean to enhance visibility for you and other drivers.

The statement added that ALEA troopers responded to 80 traffic accidents during the last winter weather event on Jan. 10 and Jan. 11. 

“ALEA stands ready to assist and respond to emergencies as the situation develops," said Colonel Jonathan Archer, ALEA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director. "Once again, we will have all available Troopers ready, this includes Troopers assigned to ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division to assist our Highway Patrol Division and respond to traffic crashes, road closures and assist with traffic control in heavily impacted areas. However, we strongly encourage citizens to stay off the roads if conditions become dangerous in your area.”