What to do if you get caught in snowstorm on road: advice from Emergency Ministry

Tengrinews.kz - Long trips in winter can be dangerous, so it is worth being carefully prepared for them. Employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations announced the rules and advice for driving in difficult weather conditions.

Before going on a trip outside the populated area, it is important to familiarize yourself with the weather forecast for the entire route in advance. You should also clarify information about possible road closures.

For example, sections of roads in the Akmola, Karaganda, Pavlodar and Zhetysu regions are currently closed.

"Up-to-date information on closed sections can be found on the QazAvtoZhol website, where a detailed map is provided, and can also be found by calling 1403, the rescue service 112, or in the Darmen mobile application," said Aslan Uakishev, Deputy Head of the Emergency Situations Department of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

If you receive a storm warning from the 112 service, it is recommended to avoid travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, preference should be given to rail transport.

If a blizzard starts on the road and visibility deteriorates, it is necessary to:

• turn on the hazard warning lights and fog lights - this will help to identify the car on the road;
• gradually reduce speed - it is important to avoid sudden braking and be prepared for sudden obstacles.

"Keep your distance from the vehicle in front and avoid overtaking," Aslan Uakishev noted.

Find a safe place: in a severe snowstorm, it is better to get to the nearest gas station, cafe, tire shop or campsite, rather than stop on the side of the road.

If you are unable to continue driving: do not panic and immediately call 112 or 102 for help.

Following these recommendations will help you avoid unpleasant situations and stay safe on the road.