Sheppard braces for wintry blast

  • Published
  • By John Ingle
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
Sheppard and the surrounding area is preparing for another blast of wintry weather as a front moves in later today.

According to the National Weather Service in Norman, Okla., freezing rain and a build up of ice is expected this afternoon and will continue throughout the weekend with lows dipping into the upper teens and highs below freezing until Monday.

Smokey Harvey, chief of the 82nd Civil Engineer Squadron's Operations Flight, said crews began spreading an "ice melt" product that prevents precipitation from freezing. Road crews will treat high-traffic areas and intersections first, he said.

"The ice melt forms a film and the ice won't freeze on this film," he said. However, if conditions worsen and more ice collects on the ground, a second treatment might be necessary on already-treated surfaces as well as intersections in base housing areas.

One of the biggest concerns for safety officials here is motorists venturing out onto slick roads. James Zillweger, 82nd Training Wing Safety Office chief, said speed is the main problem with driving on ice.

"Adjust your speed to fit the weather conditions," he said. "Keep a safe distance from the car in from of you."

Mr. Zillweger offered these safety tips for those who have to get out on icy roads:
· If road conditions are bad, plan accordingly. Leave earlier for work and take the time to arrive safely.
· Always watch out for other drivers. You never know what they will do, so drive defensively.
· Wear your seat belt and make sure all of your passengers are buckled up. Ensure children are buckled in properly.
· Remember, drivers can't always see ice. It forms first on bridges, overpasses and shady areas. If motorists hit a patch of ice, stay off the brakes and decelerate slowly, holding the car steady as it goes over the ice.
· If your car goes into a skid, take your foot off the gas pedal, but don't hit the brake. Steer gently in the direction you want the front of the car to go. As the car straightens out, you will be able to regain traction and control.
· Examine your tires to make sure the tread is not too worn. Do not attempt to drive in icy conditions if your tires are excessively worn.
· Check your car battery before cold weather sets in. Battery power dips in cold weather.
· Warm your vehicle up for a few minutes before departing.
· Keep blankets, a first-aid kit, flares, jumper cables, tire chains, a flashlight, ice scraper and gloves in your car. Take a food supply of candy bars or dried fruit in case you become stranded.
· Keep the gasoline level as high as possible to prevent water condensation in the tank.
· Check your vehicle's motor oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze, ignition system, lights, heater, cooling system and wipers.
Icy weather isn't bad for motorists alone. Staff Sgt. Wendy Medley, a safety technician at the 82nd TRW Safety Office, said pedestrians should take just as much precaution as drivers.
"During the winter months, we should always be cautious and keep safety fresh on our minds," she said.
Here are a few tips for those who get out on foot during icy conditions:
· While crossing the street, use the crosswalks that are provided. Crossing the street is the single most dangerous thing as a pedestrian and by using the crosswalk, you are more visible to a vehicle. Wait for the indicator light to change before advancing across the crosswalk.

· Never predict other people's actions. If crossing at an area that does not have a designated crosswalk, make sure drivers can see you. If a motorist stops to let you cross, make eye contact with the driver so you know for sure they are letting you cross.

· During the evening hours, make yourself visible. Wear clothing that stands out so drivers can see you.

· Walk slowly while treading through snow or ice. Even though there may be bare spots on the sidewalk, there might be black ice on the surface, which could potentially lead to a fall.
· Wear the appropriate PPE. Footgear should have traction to help avoid slips, trips and falls. High heels or smooth surfaced footwear will not work well on snow or ice.
· Always dress according to the weather. Wear layers so clothing can be removed in case the weather warms up. Frost bite occurs on areas of the body that is exposed to the weather, therefore, gloves and a hat that covers the ears are recommended.
· Keep driveways and sidewalks at your home well shoveled, and apply materials such as rock salt or sand to improve traction.