Community Corner

Winter Weather Driving Tips

Motorists should park in a safe place well off the roadway when installing tire chains or traction devices, according to the California Highway Patrol.

With show expected in the San Jacinto, San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountains Monday, officials reminded motorists to check on conditions before heading into the local mountains.

The reminder comes from the U.S. Forest Service, Caltrans and the California Highway Patrol.

“As the lure of the mountainous winter wonderland appeals to citizens across the southland, we’re asking folks to be wise and follow safe practices while in snowy conditions across the forest,” said Deputy Forest Supervisor Tom Gillett.

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Here are some winter tips:

  • Winter weather conditions in the mountains can be extreme and change without notice. An inadequately clothed person can get hypothermia (low internal body temperature). Hypothermia can be deadly – learn to recognize the early symptoms. Keep warm and dry.
  • Stay Away from ice covered lakes and streams. Over the past decade several forest visitors have fallen through thin ice and drown.
  • Be extremely careful when walking on ice covered or slippery surfaces like parking areas and trails and especially steep slopes. One slip could result in a serious injury.
  • If you plan to travel in the back country, be "Avalanche Aware" – Learn the basics at the Forest Service Avalanche Center.
  • Be courteous and remember that you are sharing public lands with other recreational users. Do not recreate on unauthorized areas or private property.
  • Bring along extra safety items such as extra clothing, blankets, water, flashlights, maps, and a cell phone. Did you remember spare batteries?
  • Park your vehicle in a safe location and do not double or triple park (blocking in others). Never park in front of closed gates, they may be needed for emergency access, and you could be cited or have your vehicle towed away.
  • Do not park in restricted or "No Parking" areas. These are posted for the safety of all travelers.
  • When installing tire chains or traction devices, park in a safe location well off the roadway. Never stop in traffic lanes for these purposes, you may cause other motorists to lose control when they spot your vehicle blocking lanes.
  • If you are involved in a traffic accident, try to immediately drive your vehicle to the roadside, but only if safe to do so. Getting the obstructing vehicles off the roadway may prevent the accident from getting worse, involving other vehicles. Immediately call 911, or ask other travelers to call 911 for you from the nearest phone.
  • “Pack it in, Pack it out” – Do not Litter. Take along a trash bag or other receptacle for collecting your trash so that you can deposit it in the proper trash receptacle.

The numbers for the local ranger stations are:

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Big Bear Ranger Station & Discovery Center 909-382-2790
Lytle Creek Ranger Station 909-382-2851
Idyllwild Ranger Station 909-382-2922
Mill Creek Work Center 909-382-2882


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