Delaware faces severe winter storm. What to do if you have to drive on Monday

Delaware is under a winter storm warning starting early Monday morning and the First State is expecting snow levels it hasn’t seen in years.

Despite the snow, there will be people who will still hit the road because of jobs or emergencies.

If you don’t need to be on the road on Monday, stay at home. Snow, at times, will be coming down at a rate of an inch per hour, according to the National Weather Service. The fewer people on the road will make it easier for those whose job it is to clear the roads.

How much snow is Delaware getting?

There’s the potential to see 1 inch per hour, according to the National Weather Service. Here are the snow projections for the state:

• New Castle County: 4-8 inches
• Kent County: 4-8 inches
• Sussex County: 6-10 inches

How to drive in snow

If you have to go out, here are some winter driving tips from AAA:

• Reduce speed. Ice and snow decrease your traction with the road so slow down.
• Increase following distances. Instead of the traditional two seconds, increase it to five to six seconds. Remember, it takes longer to stop on snowy roads.
• Don’t use cruise control.
• Keep half a tank of gas in your car.
• Keep your phone charged in case of an emergency.
• Keep an emergency kit in your car.

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What should be in your emergency kit for winter driving?

According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, where they deal with large amounts of snow, your kit should include:

• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Extra stocking caps, warm socks, gloves/mittens
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• First-aid kit
• Booster cables and windshield brush/scraper
• Drinking water and high-calorie, non-perishable food (trail mix, energy/protein bars)
• Sand or cat litter to sprinkle around your tires for traction in case you get stuck
• Cell phone adapter/charger

What to do if you become stranded?

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation recommends the following:

• Stay calm and remain buckled up inside your vehicle. Along with protecting you from the elements, your vehicle offers protection should other vehicles slide out of control.
• If possible, call 911 on your cell phone. Be ready to describe your location and situation. Follow any instructions. You may be told to stay where you are until help arrives.
• Resist the urge to get out of your vehicle and shovel or push your vehicle free. Overexertion can greatly complicate your situation, and being outside your vehicle exposes you to dangers.
• If necessary to stay warm, run your vehicle’s engine for brief periods. Make sure the exhaust system is working properly and not blocked by snow.
• Keeping your dome light on during low-light conditions can make it easier for rescue crews to find you.
• Remember, the storm will end. You will be found.