Press Release for Immediate Release March 6, 2007 DDOT and DPW Gear Up for Upcoming Winter Storm “We all want to be good neighbors and make it possible for adults and children to walk along our sidewalks without fear of slipping,” said DPW Director William O. Howland Jr. “In particular, I ask our businesses to make sure the handicap ramps located at intersections are clear of snow and ice.”  Howland also asked residents to be aware that tomorrow’s below and near freezing temperatures may cause snow to turn to ice, making it very difficult to clear from sidewalks.  “Applying abrasives, such as salt or non-clumping kitty litter before precipitation begins can help with removing the snow or ice after the storm ends,” said Howland. DDOT and DPW remind commuters and residents to: Use Metro when possible; Telecommute on Wednesday if possible; Drivers should use extreme caution and maintain safe speeds and distances from other vehicles; Remember even a 4-wheel drive SUV does not perform well in ice and additional safety measures should be followed; Be aware of road conditions, particularly black ice, which can be deceptive in its appearance giving the driver a false sense of security on the road; and Remember to keep a safe distance from emergency and snow vehicles during any major winter weather event. Page 2 of 2      1  2