Winter Weary Drivers In Philadelphia Region Should Stay Alert: PD

PHILADELPHIA REGION, PA —Punxsutawney Phil was right. The famous groundhog predicted six more weeks of winter, and we've bared the brunt with freezing temperatures, downpours, and high winds.

With winter sticking around for two more weeks, police departments in the Philadelphia region are asking drivers not to think spring just yet, even though the clocks are moving forward an hour for Sunday.

Police ask drivers to use common-sense winter-weather driving safety:

• Visibility & danger: Fully clean ice and snow from your vehicle before driving —both so you can have full visibility as a driver, but also to prevent ice chunks from flying from your vehicle and hitting another. State law states you could be ticketed if that snow or ice causes death or injury.
• Tires: Check your tire treads to make sure your tires are in good condition and your vehicle is safe to handle winter conditions. Also, assess your tire pressure, as dramatic temperature changes can affect your tire pressure.
• Fluids: Be sure to check your fluids, especially your windshield washer fluid. Swap out your wipers if they leave streaks. Fuel Up: Always have at least half a tank of gas, so you are able to go the distance if you find yourself in an emergency.
• No Puffers: Don’t forget that thieves are watching for a chance to take advantage of a puffer, a vehicle that’s left running, unlocked, and unattended. The only safe way to warm up is with a remote starter device. Common sense, but not always common practice.

For more tips on winter driving, check out PennDOT’s guide.