Kansas got an early taste of winter Wednesday night when 4-6 inches of snow fell on this part of the state.
Officially, winter begins on Sunday, Dec. 21, so the timing is about right.
Some people enjoyed the snow and even expressed hope for more next week, so they could go sledding and enjoy a white Christmas. But for others it was an inconvenience at best and a hazard at worst; two injury accidents followed Thursday morning here in Barton County. Maybe it’s time to review the basics for safe winter driving. AAA suggests:
• Avoid driving while you’re fatigued.
• Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
• Make certain your tires are properly inflated.
• Never mix radial tires with other tire types.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up.
• If possible, avoid using your parking brake in cold, rainy and snowy weather.
• Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand).
• Always look and steer where you want to go.
• Use your seat belt every time you get into your vehicle.
The National Weather Service says it’s too early to predict whether there will be snow on Dec. 25. Whatever the weather, stay alert and stay safe.