Winter storm Harper is expected to hit CNY with a bunch of snow, high winds and low temperatures and the New York State Police want to make sure we stay as safe as possible.

Several municipalities have already issued snow emergencies, but Troopers want to make sure you don't drive unless it's absolutely necessary.

Troopers will be out in force during the storm providing assistance, working closely and coordinating with local Emergency Operations Centers as needed, and they're prepared for the potential increase in storm-related service calls.

If you do have to travel during the storm, make sure you give yourself extra time, and remember bridge and exit and entrance ramps can be icy when other road surfaces are not. Clean all snow and ice from the entire vehicle and ensure the windshield is clear of frost. If you do become stranded, stay with your vehicle and in an emergency dial 911.

If you must travel- keep the following tips in mind:

  • Get the latest weather forecast and road conditions before leaving from Big Frog 104.com or the Big Frog 104 mobile app
  • Always clean your windows and mirrors FULLY of any snow and ice before driving.
  • Keep a full tank of gas
  • Make sure fluid levels are topped off (windshield washer fluid, anti-freeze)
  • Make sure your spare tire is in working condition, and you have a jack and lug wrench
  • Use headlights at all times to increase your visibility to others. Remember, if your windshield wipers are in use due to weather, then your headlights must be on.
  • Drive prudently. If the conditions are adverse, you should decrease your speed accordingly.
  • Brake early
  • Do NOT use cruise control. This decreases your reaction time to apply braking.
  • Look out for events farther down the road. Creating more time to react can make a difference.
  • Be aware of maintenance vehicles and emergency vehicles. Give them room to work.

Stock your trunk to help you to be safe in case you are stopped or stranded in an area without assistance readily available:

  • Gloves
  • blankets
  • hand warmers
  • tool kit
  • first-aid kit
  • non-perishable foods
  • water
  • working flashlight and batteries
  • cell phone charger, etc.
  • Shovel
  • ice scraper
  • de-icer
  • snow brush
  • rock salt or cat litter
  • tow chain or cable
  • jumper cables or battery charger, etc.

If you are involved in a collision or leave the roadway:

If you drive off the roadway and are stuck in a snow bank or ditch, stay in your vehicle and call 911. DO NOT exit your vehicle unless it is an absolute emergency. You put yourself at risk of being struck by another vehicle.

Roll your windows down a few inches or turn your vehicle off if you are stranded in snow for a period of time with your vehicle running. Covered mufflers can cause serious physical injury or death due to inhalation of carbon monoxide.

If you should become stranded on the Thruway or any roadway, know your location by being aware of your direction and mile post marker. This will help emergency personnel reach your location as quickly as possible.

Follow the New York State Police's Twitter page @nyspolice for up to the minute information on road closures and weather alerts. Motorists can also check 511NY before traveling at or by downloading the mobile app. The free service allows users to check road conditions and features a winter travel advisory system with real-time travel reports and a color-coded map indicating which state roads are clear, wet or snow covered.

The Thruway Authority provides a wide variety of information for travelers including current traffic conditions, accidents, and lane closures on their website at www.thruway.ny.gov, or through their mobile app.

Your best best of course is to just stay inside and wait the storm out. Don't forget you should have your vehicles off the streets to give plows room to clear the roads too.

Keep Up-To-Date

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Winter Weather Preparation:

  • Keep your cell phone charged and make sure you know where your backup power supply is.
  • Make sure all your flashlights have fresh batteries.
  • Fill your gas tank. You can use your car to keep warm and recharge devices.
  • Have some food available that you don’t need to cook.
  • Download the Big Frog 104 App. You’ll receive local alerts, weather reports and more with push notifications.

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