OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is encouraging residents to stay home during the upcoming winter weather event.
Starting on Sunday, OHP officials said they are discouraging any travel because of the dangerous conditions that may be caused by the winter storm.
OHP is partnering with the Oklahoma National Guard to have Stranded Motorist Assist Response Teams ready to assist stranded motorists if needed, officials said. These teams will be placed strategically throughout the interstate system Sunday through Wednesday. Officials said they will have teams on I-44, I-40 and I-35.
The teams will consist of eight to 10 National Guardsmen and troopers with three to four National Guard vehicles and one to two troopers, officials said. The teams will respond as a convoy to any emergencies. They will have equipment to remove vehicles from roadways, but officials said their main goal will be to rescue any stranded motorists and get them to a warm and safe location.
This is a joint effort between the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Oklahoma National Guard, Oklahoma Department of Transportation and the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management.
Despite this effort, OHP officials said there is not enough personnel to be in all places across the state at once. Depending on the conditions and the call volume, it could take a team several hours to get to a stranded motorist. That is why OHP officials said they are asking everyone to stay home.
“If you absolutely have to get out, let others know your planned route and expected arrival time. Check brakes, wipers, fluids and tire pressure. Pack warm clothing, blankets, flashlight, ice scraper, sand or cat litter, jumper cables, non-perishable food and drinking water. Charge your phone before you go and take a charging cord with you,” officials said in a news release.
Drivers are urged to allow extra time for their drive, slow down, avoid distractions and buckle up.
Friday afternoon, OHP and ODOT began working to remove abandoned vehicles already on the shoulders of highways. Officials said this will make it easier to identify stranded motorists who actually need assistance over the coming days.