North Hempstead, NY – With winter weather upon us, North Hempstead Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth and the Office of Emergency Management would like to remind everyone to drive safely this season. Winter weather brings dangerous challenges, and slick road conditions caused by ice and snow.

The Office of Emergency Management has provided some helpful tips from the United States Department of Labor to help make this winter safer for drivers and pedestrians alike:

1) Make sure your tire treads are deep enough to handle the snow. Replace your tires if necessary.
2) Make sure your car battery is in good working order.
3) Keep your windows clear. No-freeze fluid in the windshield reservoir will help keep your windshield ice-free.
4) Keep the following items in your car: jumper cables, snow shovel, ice scraper, emergency blanket, flashlight, and an abrasive material such as sand, salt, or kitty litter.
5) If you stall out or get trapped in the snow, stay in your car and don’t over exert yourself. Also, ensure that the tailpipe is not obstructed.
6) Remember, stopping distance is longer on ice or water-covered ice than on normal road conditions. When applying the brakes remember that you must “stomp” antilock brakes, and “pump” non-antilock brakes.

As always, never use alcohol or drugs and drive, and always wear your seatbelt.

If you have any questions or concerns about road conditions in the Town of North Hempstead, please call North Hempstead’s 311 Call Center. Simply dial 311 within the Town of North Hempstead, or (516) 869-6311 if you’re calling from outside the Town.