TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — Southern Idaho is expecting a chance of snow this week, which means the roads could get a little dangerous. KMVT spoke with local law enforcement and first responders about how to drive safely in cold weather.

“The roads may be icy, so you might want to drive a little slower, so give yourself extra time,” says Sergeant Josh Hayes.

Sergeant Hayes works with the Twin Falls Police Department. He says when the weather changes, car accidents increase. His advice to drivers is to check the weather the day before to be well prepared before hitting the road.

“The first snow or rain, we have a lot of accidents that day because people are driving normally or are in a hurry, and then we have accidents all day long,” Hayes says.

“Everyone is used to driving on dry roads that provide better braking distance, and they don’t realize that if the roads are wet, icy or snowy, they will lose control much more quickly,” says Captain Gary Sabin .

Firefighters have responded to deaths and injuries in the past, primarily on the highway near Kimberly, according to Captain Sabin of the Rock Creek Fire District. He says the best way to avoid accidents is to keep your vehicle maintained.

“Make sure you drive with your headlights on, your tires are in good shape for rain or snow, check your brakes, and make sure your tridents have their range,” says Sabin.

Even simple things like making sure your antifreeze is full or getting up early to defrost your windows or clearing debris from your car when it snows, and giving yourself extra time to get to your destination can help prevent an accident.

“Not following advice means you end up risking the inevitable. Eventually you’re going to have an accident,” says Sabin.

“So take your time getting to your destination and drive slowly, and you’ll get there safely,” says Hayes.

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