Academy releases latest snow map, winter safety tips Published Jan. 25, 2016 By USAF Academy Public Affairs 10th Civil Engineer Squadron USAF Academy, Colo. -- The Air Force Academy released its latest snow route map. Priority 1 routes are open during extreme weather conditions while priority 2 roads may be closed for safety reasons. Drivers on the Academy should reduce their vehicle's speed by 10 mph during snow fall or foul-weather conditions, said John Sutherland, a paving and heavy equipment official with the 10th Civil Engineer Squadron. "Most accidents during hazardous weather occur from failure to reduce speed for current conditions," Sutherland said. Severe winter storms can bring more than six inches of snow during 24 hours and are usually accompanied by freezing temperatures and blowing snow, which reduces visibility. These storms can last several days, according to the National Weather Service. Winter safety tips Keep a windshield scraper and snow brush inside your vehicle. Keep a full tank of gas during winter to minimize condensation from the fuel tank. Check your winter tires and ensure the sidewalls and rims are free of damage. Tire pressure increases during the winter and sidewalls can rupture. Listen to the local radio and TV station, weather apps, or call the Colorado Department of Transportation at 877-315-7623 for road conditions before travelling. This information is updated hourly. Travel during daylight with at least one person. Keep others informed of your schedule. Dress warmly in loose‐fitting, layered, light‐weight clothing. Wet clothing quickly loses its insulating value. Avoid overexertion. Cold weather strains the heart. Exercise, such as shoveling snow or pushing a vehicle, can cause a heart attack or worsen other medical conditions. Take breaks when performing strenuous activities. Look out for symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia. Stay in your vehicle if you’re caught in a storm. Do not leave to search for assistance unless you see a building nearby where you can take shelter. Display a trouble sign. Hang a brightly colored cloth on the radio antenna. Run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour to keep warm. Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow and slightly lower a downwind window for ventilation. Use mobile phone services sparingly. Text messages use less power. Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle during the winter: a small camping shovel, candle, blankets, additional cold weather gear, high-protein foods, flashlight, jumper cables, tow strap or chain, cat litter or old carpet for traction, and a tool kit. Winter terms Black Ice: Caused by rain or fog that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads and walkways. Black ice can be overlooked by drivers and pedestrians as it looks wet on the pavement. /> Blizzard warning: Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 mph or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow are expected for three hours or longer. Wind chill: A calculation of how cold it feels outside when temperature and wind speed are combined. Winter storm watch: Severe weather may affect your area. Winter storm warning: A storm has been forecast to occur. (Call 911 or the 10th Security Forces Squadron at 333-2000 for emergencies. U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs contributed to this article)