Tips for driving on tough winter roads

As winter rears its head upon the Hi-Line, driving a vehicle becomes more dangerous with the iced roads and low visibility

David Peterson, the director of Havre Public Works said one of the most important tips he has for people driving through wintry conditions is to be aware of which roads are being taken care of.

He added that the beginning of the season is always tough because people forget the habits they picked up the winter before.

"Just because you see sand and stuff doesn't mean you can stop immediately," Peterson said. "People need to always be aware."

He suggested that drivers try and take routes with fewer hills and take more of the snow routes, like 11th Street and 5th Avenue.

"We clear the snow routes first," Peterson said. "We typically do the schools and hills after the snow routes."

In the event drivers find themselves stuck in snow, it is suggested they carry bags of cat litter or sand to gain traction.

Peterson said there are pretty easy-to-install chains and grips that can be put on tires to help with being stuck in the snow.

Peterson's biggest piece of advice was "if you don't have to go, just stay home."

He said night time is generally the worst time to be out driving in the snow because the sanding trucks will not be out working the streets at night unless the conditions keep them out. They usually begin sanding about 6 a.m. Peterson said it's also important for people to remember that not all the streets in town get sanded, especially not on a daily basis.

AAA recommends the following for winter driving:

• Avoid driving while fatigued

• Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage

• Make certain your tires are properly inflated

• Never mix radial tires with other tire types

• Keep gas tanks at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up

• If possible, avoid using the parking brake in cold, rainy and snowy weather

• Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface

• Always look and steer where you want to go

• Use your seat belt every time you get into your vehicle