FITCHBURG, Mass. — Christmas is in the air across central Massachusetts. For many, the first snowfall of the season is exciting.
“It makes it really nice for Christmas – I mean I work outdoors so I’m a little worried about that but I mean it’s not Christmas without snow,” said Beth Carvin of Fitchburg.
Snow usually comes early in Fitchburg. The prediction for a couple of inches made a fitting backdrop for the downtown now decorated for the holiday.
“We do, we do…the first of the year makes me feel like Christmas,” said Wendy Killay of Fitchburg.
But for a lot of people, the first snow can lead to fender benders. Hanson Police tweeting out a reminder to slow down and be safe. AAA New England also has some tips as winter weather arrives.
>>>MORE: A Wintry Mix
“You want to make sure that you have checked your tires; that’s what’s most important there where the rubber meets the road in terms of safety and traction of your vehicle. Also, check to make sure you have the proper tire tread,” said Mary Maguire, a spokesperson for AAA Northeast.
Maguire says keeping a winter safety kit in your car is a good idea in cold weather. You’ll want to include:
- Ice scraper
- Jumper cables
- Blanket
- Snacks
- Flashlight
Back in Fitchburg, locals weren’t impressed with this slight snowfall.
“Nothing to be concerned about until it’s like a foot,” Carvin said.
As for Wendy Killay, she just laughs in the face of a mere two inches of snow.
“Woooo…we’ll be good,” Killay said, laughing.
And AAA Northeast offers a couple of more tips: make sure your car battery is working well before the real cold sets in; also, fill your wiper fluid. And remember, it’s the law that if your wipers are on, your headlights must be too!
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Winter driving tips from MassDOT:
- Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights, even the hood and roof, before driving, (start with the tailpipe).
- Leave plenty of room for stopping
- Remember that the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
- Use brakes carefully. Brake early. Brake correctly. It takes more time and distance to stop in adverse conditions.
- Bridge decks freeze first. Due to the difference in the exposure to air, the surface condition can be worse on a bridge than on the approach road.
- Exit ramps are an even greater challenge during the winter since they may have received less anti-icing material than the main line.
- Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows – stay back at least 200 feet and don’t pass on the right.
- Seat belts should be worn at all times – it’s the law.
- Most importantly please remember to slow down.
Additional snow content:
- Ice safety tips for safe winter fun
- What is wind chill and how can it hurt you?
- How and when to protect your pipes from freezing
- Winter weather: How to shovel, remove snow safely
- Here’s what to have in your snow emergency kit
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