A mix of wintry weather is expected to impact the Buffalo area this week, with colder temperatures moving in across the Western and Central New York region. AAA is preparing for the possibility of a high call volume due to the inclement weather and battery issues as temperatures drop. Motorists needing assistance are encouraged to request road service through the free AAA mobile app or AAA.com to avoid long telephone hold times during periods of high call volume. AAA offers advice to drivers:

•    If a driving ban is in place, do not attempt to drive through that region. If possible, stay home and stay safe.
•    Before attempting to drive, check for road closures and driving bans.
•    Keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
•    Dress warmly and carry extra clothes, including a hat, gloves, mittens, and socks.
•    Make sure your gas tank is full, put at least 1 blanket in your car, as well as a shovel in your trunk.
•    Carry bottled water and snacks in case you do get stranded.
•    Ensure that your cellphone is fully charged and that you have a charger.
•    Avoid traveling alone. Let someone know where you are going and keep in touch.

“In weather like this, preparation is everything,” said Dan Fisher, dispatch manager at AAA Western and Central New York. “Before you head out, check the weather forecast along your route, make sure you have a full tank, emergency supplies, and a charged phone. If visibility drops, don’t try to push through. Pull over safely and wait it out.”

Even drivers who are experienced with winter driving skills in vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive are no match for whiteout conditions. AAA offers these tips for navigating a vehicle in a storm:

•    If you lose sight of the road and must stop, stay with your vehicle. Your car is your shelter. Do not wander away, as you may not find it again. Stay seat-belted and call 911 for help.
•    Attach a colorful sash, handkerchief or scarf to your antenna, side mirror or window. It will flutter in the wind and can help alert emergency services to your location. You can also turn your car’s interior lights on if it gets dark outside. This doesn’t take much energy from your car battery, and it can help emergency services find you.
•    You may choose to keep your car running to make use of the heating system but try to save gasoline. If you turn your engine on, make sure your exhaust pipe is kept clear. If it gets backed up with snow, you could risk carbon monoxide poisoning.
•    Insulate your body heat with anything you have on hand, from emergency blankets to newspapers to floor mats.
•    When driving in serious snow, like a blizzard or a snowstorm – remain calm and make smart, safe decisions.

Amid high winds, AAA Insurance is reminding homeowners to take precautions. Snow drifts may block furnace vents, which need to remain clear of snow. Check pipes regularly and remove snow to avoid furnace malfunctions and carbon monoxide poisoning. Homeowners with storm damage should contact their insurance company as soon as possible. Learn more at www.AAA.com/Insurance.