Motorists urged to slow down and be cautious driving this winter

Winter is upon us and drivers and reminded to travel with safety in mind.

Reduce speed of travel.

The City of Kimball has a new tool meant to keep drivers mindful of their speed of travel, an electronic speed indicator. The indicator was a gift from the Panhandle Public Health District and it is currently placed on Highway 71 near Seventh Street.

Kimball Police Department reminds drivers that stopping on snow and ice covered roadways is more difficult. Maintaining a slower speed allows more reaction time and makes stopping easier.

"The roads will eventually be snow covered and icy; just slow down. We have worked a lot of accidents at intersections," Kimball Police Chief Andy Bremer said.

County roads can also be treacherous in the winter, so allowing extra time to get where you are going is one prudent step towards a safer outing.

Prepare for winter driving as soon as possible.

Drivers should stock vehicles with winter travel necessities, including traction material such as gravel or cat litter, and ensure vehicles are well maintained. Ensure the vehicle's fluid level are correct and that tires are properly inflated.

Cleared vehicles of excess snow before travel.

Snow and ice on the top of a vehicle can dislodge and pose a hazard to other vehicle on the roads.

"There are also quite a few (accidents) in parking lots, so make sure your mirrors and windows are cleaned off as well," Bremer added.