According to Sgt. Tony Everett, public information officer with the Big Spring Police Department, one of the biggest concerns travelers should have before pulling out the driveway is the weather.

“You can get road condition reports by calling the Texas Travel Information hotline at 800-452-9292, or pay close attention to the local weather channel,” he said. “The Texas Department of Public Safety report all road closures to both.

“Pay close attention to bridges and overpasses during freezing weather as well. Another thing to remember is to allow extra time for travel because the high level of traffic is going to increase how long it takes to get where you’re going.”

Everett said planning your trip — as well as your route — ahead of time can really pay off in the event of an emergency.

“If you’re traveling to see family, be sure to tell them what your route will be,” said Everett. “That makes it a lot easier when we have to go out and look for someone. Also, be sure to keep emergency items in the vehicle, such as first-aid kits and blankets.

“No one wants to think about what can go wrong out on the road, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared.”

Contact Staff Writer Thomas Jenkins at 263-7331 ext. 232 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it