GARFIELD HEIGHTS (Thursday, January 20, 2011) – Snowfall is expected to increase just as motorists hit the road for the Thursday evening commute and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) snowplow drivers are prepared for the challenge.

When the temperature is well below freezing the salt used to break through the ice and snow becomes less effective by itself.  Since temperatures are projected to continue dropping, salt is pre-wetted with a calcium chloride solution that is effective up to -25 degrees Fahrenheit.

By combining these deicing agents, ODOT crews are able to remove ice and snow from the roadway much more efficiently.  Studies have shown calcium chloride to be no more corrosive than salt alone.

These cold temperatures don’t inhibit the capabilities of the ODOT snowplows, which have driven more than 554,000 miles in District 12 since November 1, 2010.  That is enough miles to drive around Earth’s equator 22 times.

Cold temperatures can take a toll on your vehicle and ODOT wants to remind drivers to inspect their vehicles before hitting the road to avoid a potentially dangerous breakdown.  Drivers are encouraged to check the following items on their vehicle regularly; tires, wiper blades, fluids, lights, belts and hoses.

Motorists are also encouraged to KNO B4 U GO by logging on to ODOT’s premier traffic Web site www.BuckeyeTraffic.org before leaving work this afternoon.  With its user-friendly, map-based featured www.BuckeyeTraffic.org provides up-to-date traffic information and 24-hour road conditions across the state.

Remember:  In Ice and Snow…Take it Slow!

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For more information contact:
The ODOT District 12 Communications Office at (216) 584-2006