Poughkeepsie… The Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response is closely monitoring an approaching winter storm that is expected to impact Dutchess County tomorrow morning.   Periods of snow are forecasted to start after midnight and continuing into Wednesday morning with a possible accumulation of up to 2 to 4 inches.   The sn owfall is expected to impact the morning drive commute, so drivers are urged to exercise particular caution when out driving on the roads.    

The Department of Emergency Response will have additional public safety dispatchers to handle the potential increase in cell phone calls to 911 from drivers reporting weather related motor vehicle accidents on the roadway.

The Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response offers the following reminders and tips for safe winter driving:

• The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents.
• When winter storms strike, do not drive unless necessary.
• If travel is a necessity, drivers should make sure their vehicle is stocked with survival gear such as blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly-colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
• Vehicle gas tank should be kept full to prevent gasoline freeze-up. 
• Drivers should be sure their cell phone battery is charged and with them whenever traveling.
• Make sure someone knows your travel plans.
• Listen to the local media report or call law enforcement agencies for the latest road conditions. 
• Keep vehicles clear of ice and snow. Good vision is a key to good driving. 
• Plan stops and keep more distance between cars.  Always match speed to the road and weather conditions.
• Winterize your vehicle.  
• Drivers should ensure their vehicle is in good working order for the winter driving season and check the following items:
  o Battery
  o Wipers and windshield washer fluid
  o Antifreeze
  o Ignition system
  o Thermostat
  o Lights
  o Exhaust system
  o Flashing hazard lights
  o Heater
  o Brakes
  o Defroster
  o Oil level
•  Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. 
• Keep a windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal as well as sand or kitty litter for traction.

For more tips and information for Winter Weather preparedness, visit the Department of Emergency Response webpage at https://www.dutchessny.gov/