With snow and icy conditions expected in many areas this weekend, Priority Ambulance is urging drivers to take precautions to stay safe on icy roads. Even light snow or ice can significantly increase the risk of crashes, injuries, and emergency response delays.

“Our top priority is keeping people safe, both on the road and in their homes,” said Phil Koster, Chief Operating Officer, Priority Ambulance. “Winter weather changes driving conditions instantly. A few simple precautions can make the difference between arriving safely and needing an emergency crew to assist you.”

The Risk is Real

Each year, winter weather contributes to more than 150,000 vehicle accidents and nearly 1,300 preventable deaths, with thousands more injured. These tragedies are avoidable with preparation and cautious driving.

Safety Tips for Drivers

Before you Drive:

  • Remove all dirt, ice, and snow from vehicle sensors to ensure assistive driving features like automatic emergency braking work properly.
  • Clean all external camera lenses and side mirrors.
  • Check tires for adequate tread and traction.
  • Ensure you have more than enough gas in your tank to make it to your destination.
  • Fully charge all cellular phones to be able to make emergency phone calls if necessary.
  • Plan for delays and possible road closures.

On the Road:

  • Increase your following distance. Vehicles require more time to stop on icy or slushy roads.
  • Avoid using cruise control.
  • Accelerate and decelerate slowly.
  • If you begin to slide, do not overcorrect; steer gently in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go.

Priority Ambulance is Ready

While drivers are urged to stay home, Priority Ambulance crews remain fully staffed, equipped, and prepared to respond during severe weather. EMS teams are trained to continue to keep communities safe during winter’s worst, closely coordinating with local public safety partners.

“Emergencies don’t wait for clear skies, and neither do we,” Koster said. “Our teams are ready to serve, but we ask the public to help us by staying off the roadways and when travel is necessary, driving safely and reducing unnecessary risk on the roads.”

Priority Ambulance serves communities nationwide through its family of locally operated EMS providers including Shoals Ambulance, Baptist Ambulance, Ambucare EMS, Central EMS, National EMS, Puckett EMS, LifeCare Medical Transports, Magnolia Ambulance, Guardian Ambulance Medshore Ambulance, and Priority Ambulance. For more information about Priority Ambulance and how we are working to keep your community safe visit www.priorityambulance.com.