Survival Tips for Navigating Today's Winter Weather from the Snow & Ice Management Association

MILWAUKEE-- Winter Storm Goliath is expected to bring dangerous winter weather conditions to several U.S states.

"The snow storms across the Mid-West states today are a reminder of how dangerous winter weather can be," said Martin B. Tirado, CAE, CEO of the Snow & Ice Management Association (http://www.sima.org) (SIMA) "Venturing out during a snowstorm or mixed precipitation increases the chance of having a car accident, getting stranded, breaking a bone, or suffering from frostbite. The best advice is to stay home."

SIMA, the North American nonprofit organization representing snow and ice removal professionals, has these tips to stay safe during this weekend winter weather event.

· TIP #1: Wear proper shoes. While fashion is great, the right shoes to navigate snow and ice place the entire foot on the surface of the ground and have visible, heavy treads and a flat bottom.

· TIP #2: Be prepared. Have an ice scraper and brush in your car--not in the trunk, as snow may make it difficult to open the trunk. Have a full tank of gas; check the tire pressure, battery, and oil. Wear the proper clothing--boots, gloves, hats, scarves, etc., and take extra clothes. Charge your cell phone before leaving home and take a car charger. Carry a safe winter car kit containing items such as kitty litter, rock salt, a shovel, a blanket, flares, water, etc.

· TIP #3: Slow down. The time you need to stop, the possibility of sliding increases when it starts to snow or in freezing conditions.

· TIP #4: Check the news. Listen to the news to hear about your local road conditions. Pay attention to what roads are impassable and plan another route if those routes affect you. If the roads are hazardous or closed, stay home.

Following these tips will help ensure that you survive a blizzard safely. For more snow and ice tips, visit SIMA (http://www.sima.org) .

About the Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA)

Founded in 1996, the Snow & Ice Management Association (http://www.sima.org) is the North American trade association for professionals involved with the snow and ice industry including snow plowing as well as commercial & residential snow removal. SIMA empowers snow and ice companies for success. SIMA members clear snow and ice from the parking lots of hospitals, schools, grocery stories, shopping centers, apartments and sporting complexes.