Winter Safety

November 3, 2006

ELLENSBURG, Wash. - The university would like to remind everyone to use extra caution when traveling in inclement weather.

Tips for a safer winter:

• Don't try to pass a snow plow. Snow plows are wider than one traffic lane. Avoid getting squeezed on the road (and avoid limited visibility caused by flying snow and ice) by not passing snow plows.
• Stay at least 3 - 4 car lengths behind snow plows to avoid windshield damage and to allow for adequate stopping distance.
• Use alternative transportation during snow storms, such as Central Transit to travel in the Ellensburg area. This reduces the number of vehicles on the roadways, gives snow plows more room in which to operate, and saves wear and tear on cars. When driving, allow more stopping distance between cars. It takes 3-12 times more distance to stop on icy or snowy roads. Avoid making last-minute decisions.
• Shovel sidewalks. Be mindful of how to make sidewalks safer for those on foot.
• Be extra careful around traffic.
• Cycle safely and watch for ice and gravel and wear a bike helmet.

For information about closures and/or delays, the CWU automated phone system is operational and will be updated to contain information about any-and-all situations impacting the normal, day-to-day operations of the Ellensburg campus.

Faculty, staff, students and other interested parties, both on- and off-campus, can reach the information line by calling 509-963-2345. When needed, the phone line, a companion university Web site (www.cwu.edu/closures.html) and radio and television announcements will all be used to make notifications concerning university delays and/or closures.

Contact: Becky Watson (509-963-1117/fax 509-963-2301/e-mail: bwatson@cuw.edu)
Robert Lowery (509-963-1487/fax 509-963-2301/e-mail: loweryr@cwu.edu)