MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
A Division Of The
Department of Public Safety
Public Information and Education Division - PO Box 568 - Jefferson City, MO 65102

NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Capt. J. Tim Hull
Q7202012-2 (573) 526-6115

July 20, 2012
EMPHASIS: Patrol Reminds Motorists: Avoid Driving Into Smoke

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor Report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture this month, 93 percent of Missouri is experiencing severe to extreme drought conditions. Unfortunately, these extremely dry conditions have heightened the danger of fire throughout Missouri. Missouri firefighters have already worked numerous fires along our roadways. Colonel Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, cautions Missouri drivers to avoid driving in areas where smoke from these fires affects visibility.

When smoke affects visibility on a roadway, drivers must exercise extreme caution. The best decision is not to drive in smoke. If you must drive under these conditions, there are actions that drivers should take to protect themselves and their passengers.

• Slow down! Don't over drive your sight distance.

• Turn on your low-beam headlights.

• If the smoke becomes so thick that you cannot see well enough to keep driving, pull all the way off the pavement, stop, and turn on your emergency flashers.

• The space between your vehicle and the roadway should be sufficient so that you can safely exit the vehicle without obstructing traffic.

• Report the hazard to the nearest Missouri State Highway Patrol troop headquarters or local law enforcement, so that steps can be taken to warn other drivers about the hazard.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol's Emergency Report number is 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. You may also notify local law enforcement by calling 9-1-1.

(###)