Part 39: Snow Emergency

Winter Survival Guide: Navigating Minnesota Snow Emergencies and Staying Safe on Icy Roads

Winter in Minnesota isn’t just a season—it’s a lifestyle. With snow-covered roads, frigid temperatures, and frequent snow emergencies, staying safe while driving becomes a top priority. Whether you’re a lifelong Minnesotan or a newcomer, here’s your ultimate guide to handling snow emergencies, navigating icy roads, and preparing for the unexpected.

Snow Emergencies and Parking Rules

When heavy snowfalls hit, cities across Minnesota declare snow emergencies to clear the streets efficiently. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Know Your City’s Rules: Each city has its own snow emergency protocols. Minneapolis and St. Paul, for instance, have detailed parking restrictions that vary by day and location. Stay informed by signing up for text alerts or checking your city’s website.
  2. Understand Parking Restrictions:
    • First Day: Don’t park on snow emergency routes. These roads are prioritized for plowing.
    • Second Day: Move your car to the odd-numbered side of non-snow emergency routes.
    • Third Day: Switch to the even-numbered side. Failure to follow these rules can result in fines, towing, or worse—your car buried under a snowbank.
  3. Keep a Shovel Handy: If you’re parked on a street, clear around your car before the plows come through. It helps prevent being plowed in.

Sharing the Road with Snowplows

Snowplows are the unsung heroes of Minnesota winters, but sharing the road with them requires caution:

  • Give Them Space: Snowplows are larger and slower than most vehicles. Stay at least 200 feet behind them to avoid flying snow, ice, or debris.
  • Be Patient: Plows often operate at reduced speeds. Resist the urge to pass them unless absolutely necessary—and only when it’s safe to do so.
  • Stay Visible: Snowplows have large blind spots. Ensure your car’s headlights and taillights are on to stay visible during snowstorms.

Skidding and Anti-Lock Brakes

Icy roads can turn even a short trip into a white-knuckle experience. Here’s how to handle a skid:

  1. Don’t Panic: Stay calm and avoid slamming on the brakes.
  2. Turn into the Skid: Steer gently in the direction you want to go. This helps regain control.
  3. Use ABS Correctly:
    • If your car has anti-lock brakes, press the brake pedal firmly and hold it. The system will pump the brakes for you.
    • For non-ABS vehicles, gently pump the brakes to avoid locking up.

Winter Emergency Kit Essentials

Every Minnesotan should keep a winter emergency kit in their car. Include these items:

  • Warm Gear: Extra gloves, hats, blankets, and hand warmers.
  • Tools: Ice scraper, snow brush, small shovel, jumper cables, and tire chains.
  • Safety Supplies: Flashlight with extra batteries, first aid kit, and reflective triangles.
  • Food and Water: High-energy snacks like granola bars and bottled water.
  • Phone Charger: A fully charged power bank for your cellphone.
  • Traction Aids: Sand, kitty litter, or traction mats to help if you get stuck.

What to Do if You’re Stranded

If you find yourself stuck or stranded in the middle of a Minnesota winter, follow these steps to stay safe:

  1. Stay in Your Vehicle: Leaving your car in severe weather increases the risk of hypothermia or frostbite.
  2. Call for Help: Dial 911 or a roadside assistance service. Share your location clearly.
  3. Stay Visible: Turn on your hazard lights and hang a brightly colored item (like a scarf) from your window.
  4. Run Your Engine Sparingly: If you need heat, run the engine for 10 minutes every hour. Make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
  5. Conserve Energy: Wrap yourself in blankets and minimize movement to retain body heat.

Prepare Now for Peace of Mind

Minnesota winters are unpredictable, but with proper preparation and knowledge, you can navigate snow emergencies and icy roads safely. Take time now to review your city’s parking rules, check your car’s safety features, and stock up on emergency essentials.

Winter driving doesn’t have to be stressful—just approach it with caution, respect for others on the road, and a healthy dose of Minnesota resilience. Stay safe, and happy winter driving!