snow emergency prohibits anyone from parking on roads that are specified as snow emergency routes, which are clearly marked with red and white signs. Cars parked on these streets after the emergency goes into effect will be ticketed -- $250 fine - and towed to a nearby street; however, the District does not charge a towing fee for this action.

In addition, fines of $250 will be assessed for breakdowns on snow emergency routes if the vehicle is without all-weather tires and/or chains.

All snow routes are under Snow Emergency regulations as long as the emergency is in effect -- individual streets are not exempt. DPW considers the forecast and the length and nature of the storm to give motorists as much time as possible to move their cars.

During a Snow Emergency:

• Stay at least 35 feet behind a plow truck
• Clear snow from catch basins, fire hydrants and sidewalks
• Park at the curb, not in the driving lane
• Put snow in tree box, not in the street
• Use public transportation
• Call (202) 541-6060 to locate a towed car

At home, at work, in your car, it is useful to have:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-powered portable radio to receive emergency information
• Extra food and water: high-energy food, dried fruit or candy, and food requiring no cooking or refrigeration is best
• Extra medicine and baby items
• First aid supplies
• Heating fuel, since fuel carriers may not deliver fuel for days after a severe winter storm