http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/modotprepa_1146.mp3
The Missouri Department of Transportation is prepared to battle winter weather this year. KSMU's Christy Hendricks has the story.
When temperatures drop and snow and ice cover the roads, the Missouri Department of Transportation plans to tackle the winter weather with new plows and salt this year.
Angela Eden is a senior community relations specialist with the Springfield District office of MoDOT.
She says the Springfield district has 180 vehicles ready to plow snow including 16 new plows this year.
Eden says slowing down and avoiding sudden stops or turns are some simple driving tips that can help keep you safe when driving in snow or ice.
Angela Eden says MoDOT's goal is to keep state roads driveable while the snow falls.
She says high-traffic roads will get more attention than less traveled roads.
She also says that clearing your driveway a certain way can help keep roads safe when MoDOT clears the road.
Springfield typically uses about 17-thousand tons of salt each year and has 27-thousand tons stored for the district.
To find out about driving conditions during winter weather visit modot.org or call 895-7600.