Hazardous Conditions - Safety Tips

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Car Safety Tips:

Here are some helpful car safety tips brought to you from Transportation. The tips on this page are designed to assist you during winter snow and ice events.

Featured Safety Tip:

Clear all windows, and do not start driving until your windshield and windows are defrosted and clear.

Winterize Your Car:

First, keep your car's gas tank full. It is best to check your car before the storm hits. Plus, you might want to consider snow tires, studded tires, or chains. Here are some basic things to check before you head out:

  • Battery
  • Ignition system
  • Brakes
  • Defroster
  • Thermostat
  • Lights
  • Flashing hazard lights
  • Windshield washer fluid
  • Oil level
  • Tires
  • Antifreeze
  • Exhaust system
  • Windshield wipers
  • Heater

Keep a Winter Car Kit:

Having a winter car kit is a good idea. Here are some things to consider carrying in the trunk of your car:

  • Shovel
  • Windshield ice scraper
  • Battery-powered radio
  • Flashlight
  • Tow chain or rope
  • Cellular telephone
  • Bag of road salt & sand
  • Fluorescent distress flag
  • Booster cables
  • Road maps
  • Tire chains
  • Emergency flares
  • Extra batteries
  • Water
  • Snack food
  • Mittens & hat
  • Blanket

Personal Safety Tips:

Here are some personal safety tips to consider during winter weather. Remember, if you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1 for help.

  • Stay informed: Listen to the radio or television for weather reports and emergency information.
  • Keep hydrated: Eat regularly and drink ample fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
  • Dress for the season: Wear several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water-repellent. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Wear a hat; most body heat is lost through the top of the head.
  • Be careful when shoveling snow: Over-exertion can bring on a heart attack, a major cause of death in the winter. If you shovel snow, stretch before going outside and don't overexert yourself.
  • Power out? If you choose to use a standby power generator, please stay safe and observe these generator safety tips.
  • Driving during a storm? Stay home if you can, but if you must travel, consider public transportation. If you travel by car - travel during the day, don't travel alone, and keep others informed of your schedule. Stay on main roads; avoid back-road shortcuts.

Contacting Public Works

  • Physical Address: 924 7th Ave. SE, Suite A
  • Mailing Address: PO Box 1967, Olympia, WA 98507-1967 (directions)
  • Hours: M - F from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except for City-recognized holidays)
  • 360.753.8588, TTY 360.753.8005
  • publicworks@ci.olympia.wa.us