December's two snow events serve as good reminders for the general public on driving with caution and being prepared for snow event conditions. Here are a few reminders:
**Stay tuned to National Weather Service, South Dakota Department of Transportation and Pennington County Emergency Management websites, media weather reports, and your weather radio for additional details and changing conditions. As with any winter weather event, it is important to also take a few necessary precautions before the event occurs.
**If you plan to travel, make sure your cell phone is charged and you have a winter survival kit in your vehicle. Make sure you have enough gas in your vehicle. Make sure friends and family are made aware of your time of departure and expected time of arrival.
**Don't crowd the plows.
**Drive the conditions. Slow down and be safe.
**Allow extra time for driving the conditions so you arrive safe.
**If you are traveling by air, check your airlines for any adjustments in arrival and departure times with individual flights.
**Rapid City's snow removal policies and code enforcement guidelines for removal of snow by homeowners are profiled on the City's webpage under 'Top News' items.
**Monitor road reports by dialing 511 and checking National Weather Service and State Department of Transportation websites for updates.
**Make sure you have sufficient supplies of medication and important medical supplies.
**For families with small children, make sure you have enough diapers, formula, etc.
**During winter weather events, bring your pets inside and limit exposure to the outdoor conditions.