December 2024 PRESS RELEASE

Wood County Safe  Communities announced today that there have been 19 fatal crashes to date, compared to 18 at this time last year.
 
Whether it’s snow, sleet or ice, winter weather can cause extremely dangerous road conditions. In 2022 there were 498 fatal traffic crashes, and an estimated 32,213 injury crashes that occurred when there was snow/sleet conditions at the time of the crash. Preparing yourself – and your vehicle – for winter weather is key.
 
The Basics
Slow down. It’s harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface. In fact, 2022 there were an estimated 153,620 police reported traffic crashes that occurred when there was snow/sleet conditions at the time of the crash. On the road, increase your following distance enough so that you’ll have plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you.
 
Don’t crowd a snow plow or travel beside the truck. Snow plows travel slowly, make wide turns, stop often, overlap lanes, and exit the road frequently. If you find yourself behind a snow plow, stay far enough behind it and use caution if you pass the plow.
 
What to Do in an Emergency
 

• If you are stopped or stalled in wintry weather, stay focused on yourself and your passengers, your car, and your surroundings.
• Stay with your car and don’t overexert yourself. 
• Let your car be seen. Put bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light on. 
• Be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of any snow and run your car only sporadically — just long enough to stay warm. Don’t run your car for long periods of time with the windows up or in an enclosed space.

For more information:  NHTSA Website:  https://bit.ly/3OIpuAQ
 

Sandy Wiechman- Safe Communities Coordinator

• Phone: (419) 372-9353
• Email: slwiech@bgsu.edu

Lt. Matthew N. Geer - Commander

• Bowling Green Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol
• Phone:  (419) 352-2481
• Email:  mngeer@dps.ohio.gov