Common sense beats high tech on icy roads
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, December 29th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – Umatilla County Sheriff’s Sgt. Dwight Johnson of the Search and Rescue Team has advice for motorists venturing into unknown areas during winter weather. He said that in most instances it is important to stay with their vehicles, which are easier to locate than a sole individual wandering through a rural area.
“Lots of people have smart phones and there are a lot of applications out there that give good mapping capabilities,” he said. “If you have them, make sure you know how to use them.”
Johnson said that there are times when high tech doesn’t work. Therefore, travelers should also carry a paper map with them.
“A lot of these modern devices really work well when they work,” he said. “We use them in search and rescue, but we also always train our volunteers how to go back to the old-fashioned way because those things have a tendency to fail.”
He also said that when freeways close due to inclement weather conditions, the safest approach is to wait it out instead of trying to find an alternate route via a global positioning system.
“When the interstate closes, you’ll find your GPS will route over towards Indian Lake,” he said. “That is not a good route to take in the wintertime.”
He said people should pack extra food, water, blankets, and warm clothing when setting off in the winter. They should also let others know their routes and arrival times.
“Be prepared for the unexpected,” he said.
