Big Country Travel Alert - Icy Roads

Drivers in the Big Country should be on high alert for the threat of winter precipitation across the region starting late this afternoon and lasting until early Wednesday.  If you don't have to be out on the roadways you are urged to stay at home. If travel is absolutely necessary, please follow these safety tips as recommended by the Texas Department of Transportation. The following information can help you drive safely when winter weather strikes.

* Check the road conditions and stay tuned to local news broadcasts for more information on roadway and weather conditions.

* Remove snow and ice from your vehicle before you drive, making sure the headlights and taillights are visible.

* Accelerate slowly.

* Increase your following distance.

* Brake gently in slow, steady strokes to see how much traction you have, and begin braking early when approaching intersections or stops.

* Approach bridges, shaded spots, overpasses and turns slowly.

* Never use cruise control in winter driving conditions.

 * Use non-freezing windshield washer liquid.

 * Use snow tires and/or chains (where allowed).

 * If you are stranded, call the Texas Department of Public Safety's stranded motorist hotline toll-free at (800) 525-5555.

Instant Road Condition Information:

• Texas Road Conditions: 1-800-452-9292

• TXDOT Road Conditions (Online)