(WXYZ) — As the snow comes down Michigan State Police are reminding people to slow down if they are on the roads and be sure to plan ahead. Many cities across Southeast Michigan have declared snow emergencies while plows hit the roads.
MSP is telling folks if you don’t have to be on the roads, don’t and make sure you plan ahead if you absolutely need to hit the roadways.
“If this isn’t your thing stay home and let them clear off the roads first,” said Lt. Michael Shaw with Michigan State Police.
With anywhere from 5 to 10 inches of snow expected in the forecast, MSP is reminding folks to take it easy if they have to be on the roads.
“You’ve got to slow down," Lt. Shaw said. "You want to leave enough room so if something happens to the driver in front of you, you don’t have to slam on your brake.”
Snow emergencies have been declared in many cities across Michigan. Paul Sincock, the city manager in Plymouth, says the emergencies are declared so plows can do their jobs on the roads.
“We’re a small 2-square-mile city and we’re keeping crews in literally working 24 hours," he said. "It’s very important that the cars get off the street so that our snowplows are doing the work, they can be effective and efficient. If we have to come back another day to redo part of your street it just really slows the process down."
Sincock says people should be careful when shoveling snow and remember not to shovel snow into the road.
“Please don’t blow, push or shovel the snow back into the street after we’ve plowed it. It creates a hazard for drivers coming down the street and could cause an actual potential liability for the property owner,” he said.
Lt. Shaw says it’s important people plan ahead if they have to be on the roads and be sure to pack extra supplies in your car just in case.
“Make sure you’ve got an extra coat in there, an extra hat and gloves, maybe a bottle of water and snacks or whatever," he said. "It’s going to take a little bit to get to where you are so have that emergency stuff in there and make sure you dress warm."
Again, state police are telling folks: if you don’t have to be on the roads, stay off of them.
