(JUNEAU, Alaska) – As colder temperatures descend across many parts of the state, the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (ADOT&PF) reminds drivers to take proper caution in preparing for safe winter travel.

Drivers can access real-time travel information by visiting 511.alaska.gov, or dialing 5-1-1 to hear National Weather Service weather watches, and access the Alaska Marine Highway System schedules or speak to a reservation agent. Road Weather Information cameras, which are placed on several roads across Alaska, can also be viewed on the 511 website.

ADOT&PF offers these tips to make winter transportation safer:

Before travel:

• Clear snow and ice from all vehicle windows and lights
• Have a full tank of gas – many gas stations are not open in the winter
• Bring emergency supplies, a first aid kit and a charged cell or satellite phone
• Alert someone of anticipated arrival and departure schedule
  

During travel:

• Drive according to road conditions instead of posted speed limits
• Use four wheel drive when appropriate
• Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles on the road
• Remember to brake carefully – it takes more time to stop in adverse conditions
• Stay at least 200 feet back from snow removal equipment and don't pass on the right. Driving too close can cause white out conditions.

Travelers can also check the department’s social media outlets for updates on the 511 Facebook or Twitter pages. Alaska 511 maintains regional Twitter handles for travelers in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Valdez, Denali, Tok, Tazlina, in Dalton Highway, Kenai peninsula and the Mat-Su valley.

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 9 ferries serving 35 communities along 3,500 marine miles, over 5,600 miles of highway and 839 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.”

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