Last week marked Winter Hazard Awareness Month, a time to prepare for the hazards winter may have in store for us.

However, last week was filled with mild temperatures, and nobody wanted to think about winter much.

But now, we’re getting our first taste of winter weather for the year. And as that happens, we urge drivers to be patient and take their time as they re-acclimate their driving skills to the challenge of snow and ice on roads. According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, icy road conditions contributed to nearly 60 deaths and over 4,500 injuries in 2004.

Motorists re-learn how their vehicle responds on snow or ice by testing brakes to get a feel for the road. Patience and focus on driving are key

to safe winter driving &045; not only because of the inclement conditions, but also because of time pressures exerted by the holiday season.

We share these tips from the Office of Traffic Safety for safe winter driving:

– Always use seat belts.

– Give yourself plenty of travel time &045;

don’t put your schedule before safety.

– Clear snow and ice from all vehicle windows, hood, headlights, brake lights and directional signals.

– Adjust speed to road and weather conditions.

– Lower speeds help drivers avoid crashes and minimize those that occur.

– Keep a safe stopping distance between vehicles, and leave extra room between your vehicle and snow plows or other removal equipment.

– Avoid using cruise-control.

– Headlights must be turned on when it a snowing or sleeting.

Historically during the winter months in Minnesota, the number of vehicle crashes increases substantially. It doesn’t have to be that way. Winter has arrived. Please use caution.