MDOT preparing for hazardous conditions

The Mississippi Department of Transportation crews are preparing the roads for winter weather.

MDOT crews are pre-treating the roads and bridges with sodium brine, which lowers the freezing point of water and helps lessen ice formation.

MDOT is preparing equipment by installing salt spreaders on trucks and making sure all response vehicles are fueled and running properly.

Crews are stocking salt, sand, and asphalt slag piles. Overnight, crews will be riding the highways to treat problem areas as they are found.

MDOT Executive Director Melinda McGrath issued a statement today that says in part: “The solution has to be applied to a dry surface. Applying it during or after rainfall renders it ineffective. The salt brine helps lessen ice formation, but cannot completely prevent it. Motorists should always slow down and drive carefully in winter weather conditions.”

To assist the traveling public in preparing for potential winter weather conditions here are some tips:

• Ice will form on bridges and overpasses quicker than the road
• Slow down; should winter weather conditions become present, black ice can form
• Allow more space between the vehicle in front of you
• Brake early and gently to avoid skidding and never slam on the brakes
• Avoid distractions such as talking or texting on a cell phone
• Stay alert