FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Local officials are warning residents to be prepared in the event of inclement weather and offer tips for those who must travel, or become stranded in snow, and tips to prevent frozen water pipes.
Indiana State Police (ISP) reminds all Hoosiers to exercise extreme caution.
ISP Bloomington District is monitoring weather conditions and will adjust coverage accordingly. Troopers from the Bloomington District will patrol I-69 and major roadways on Sunday and Monday.
Public Information Officer, Sgt. Kevin Getz reminds motorists that any abandoned or parked vehicles that could impede INDOT’s snow/ice removal will be removed before the arrival of the inclement weather on Sunday or ISP will remove them.
If you must travel
The Bloomington District also requests Hoosiers remain at home unless necessary. If motorists must be out, ISP reminds motorists of the following:
- Approach bridges and overpasses with extreme caution as they typically freeze first.
- Allow for increased stopping distances especially when approaching traffic control devices such as lights and stop signs.
- Maintain a full tank of fuel or full EV charge.
- Maintain a full cell phone charge. Keep a charge cord in your vehicle.
- Keep your vehicle stocked with appropriate winter emergency gear/clothing.
- Monitor local news and weather outlets for updates.
Stranded motorists
Greene County Emergency Management Director, Roger Axe said, “The idea is to survive,” and offered the following tips if you get stranded in the snow.
- Make sure your tailpipe is clear of snow otherwise, carbon monoxide can back up into the passenger area of the vehicle.
- Run your engine for your heater for only 10 minutes every hour to save fuel.
- While running the car engine, crack your window to vent any carbon monoxide.
You can view the Greene County Emergency Management pdf below about how you can prepare for a winter storm emergency.
Preventing frozen water pipes
With frigid temperatures on the way, The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office took to social media to share tips to help prevent frozen water pipes.
- Open cabinets regularly to let warm air circulate to pipes
- Keep garage doors closed
- Let faucets drip slightly (*this may lead to a slight increase in the water bill, but is less expensive than busted pipes.)
- Make sure the temperature in the home is at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit when not at home
- When home, keep the thermostat consistent
- Open interior doors to keep your home at a constant temperature
- Purchase pipe insulation for exposed plumbing.
