Braun, state entities outline winter weather preparedness plans for upcoming season

INDIANAPOLIS — Central Indiana saw a taste of what this year’s winter season could bring, as winter weather caused multiple interstate crashes and school delays on Monday.

According to a news release from the office of Indiana Gov. Mike Braun, Sunday marked the start of Winter Weather Preparedness Week in the state of Indiana. Braun hosted a news conference on Monday with many other entities, including the Indiana Department of Transportation, the Indiana State Police and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, to outline the state’s plans this winter.

This comes after officials with the Indiana State Police stated that they responded to 134 crashes in the Indianapolis district over the last 24 hours, including 18 with injuries. They also responded to 15 slide-offs and assisted 32 motorists with disabled vehicles.

Officials with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department also said on Monday that they responded to more than 50 crashes since 12 a.m.

“Keeping Hoosiers safe this winter season will take a collaborative effort between our state agencies and our citizens,” Braun said in the release. “Our INDOT crews, State Police and first responders are fully equipped and ready to tackle the season’s challenges. I am urging every Hoosier to do their part: prepare your homes, plan your travel, and always give our dedicated crews the space they need to keep our state moving safely.”

Officials with INDOT said that they have spent months preparing for winter operations, including:

• Hiring seasonal snowplow drivers
• Completing training with current staff
• Inspecting trucks and other equipment
• Securing materials like salt.

“Our plows are ready, salt barns are stocked, and we have plenty of drivers for the season, but safety on the roads depends on all of us,” INDOT Commissioner Lyndsay Quist said in the release. “Please, when you’re out on the roads this winter, slow down, don’t crowd the plow and give our crews room to work.”

Other officials said that winter weather can lead to power outages, dangerous travel conditions and other risks. Last year, more than 4,500 crashes were reported in the winter months.

“Winter storms can be unpredictable, but preparation makes all the difference,” IDHS Executive Director Jonathan Whitham said in the release. “By assembling emergency kits, winterizing vehicles and monitoring local advisories, Hoosiers can reduce their risk and help emergency responders focus on those who need help most.”

The entities provided the following safety tips for Indiana residents during the winter season:

• Slow down and adjust your speed to road conditions, especially on snow-covered roads
• Know before you go, including checking conditions and forecasts before individuals hit the road.
• Allow plenty of time to reach the destination safely
• Never tailgate or drive beside a snowplow
• Leave extra space between vehicles
• Prepare an emergency kit with snacks, water, a phone charger, sand/cat litter, flares or bright LED alternatives, a flashlight, blankets and extra clothing
• Keep the vehicle full of gas and check the battery, fluids and spare tires
• Clear all snow and ice from the vehicle’s windows, lights and signals.

For more information, along with real-time travel information, click here.