Nov. 5 – 9 is Winter Awareness Week

Wisconsin winters can be hard to deal with at home and on the road. To encourage people to plan ahead for the snow and cold, Gov. Scott Walker has declared Nov. 5-9 as Winter Awareness Week in Wisconsin. Winter emergency kits should include items such as food, water, flashlight and batteries and blankets. In your vehicle, also be sure to include a snow shovel, extra gloves and hats, and kitty litter or sand to help give your wheels traction on icy roads in case you get stuck. Winter driving can be extremely hazardous. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, approximately 41 people are killed and almost 3,400 injured in crashes on icy or snow-covered roads in the state. Before you travel, check with the 511 Wisconsin for the latest traffic and road conditions. This information, along with live traffic cameras and traffic alerts, can be accessed on the 511 Wisconsin system, which includes a free mobile app, @511WI on Twitter, or the mobile-friendly site 511wi.gov.