With more than 2,500 miles of roads to watch over, the King County Roads Services Division is busy preparing for winter driving conditions.

"This year, we are deploying staff so we can operate an overnight shift in Southeast King County throughout the winter that will complement our overnight crew on the Eastside," said Linda Dougherty, Road Services Division manager. "These crews will be our eyes on the road to prepare county roads for morning trips to school and work. It increases our flexibility and responsiveness."

Dougherty and other King County Department of Transportation officials are urging all county residents to do their own preparation before driving in wintry conditions.

"Start by being aware of driving conditions before you leave home," said Dougherty. "King County has done a great deal of work over the past few years to create a transportation information network that involves both the public and private sectors."

In addition to the traditional weather advisories broadcast on television and radio, there are several online websites that provide up-to-the-minute information:

• Emergency advisories regionwide on RPIN:
• Local road closures & conditions at King County Alert!
• King County & other agency traffic cameras at My Commute.

Residents can also sign up for "King County Alert," a free e-mail subscription service that alerts motorists about closures and other problems on county maintained roadways. Sign up for the road alert service either at King County Alert! or through RPIN.

The Road Services Division starts preparing for winter well before the bad weather hits. Snow removal vehicles are primed and positioned throughout the county. The King County Road Services Division is responsible for more than 2,560 miles of roadway both in unincorporated King County and 10 contract cities. It takes 32 snowplows, 11 graders, and four de-icing trucks to maintain these local roads during snowy and icy weather.

The overall goal is to provide the safest possible roadway system and access routes for the public. Priorities are:

• Major arterials;
• Metro Transit and school bus routes;
• Emergency routes (i.e. hospital access roads);
• Access roads to freeways and park and ride lots.

This season, the division will have about 27,000 cubic yards of sand and 210 tons of salt immediately available for snow and ice operations. Stockpiles of sand and salt are located at maintenance sites throughout the county.

When snowfall is significant, all road crews will be placed on 12-hour shifts to provide around-the-clock coverage. Although road crews have already received their snow removal route assignments, some of those workers could be shifted to other parts of the county if necessary.

As the county works hard to keep roads clear of snow and ice, motorists should familiarize themselves with these basic winter driving tips:

• Allow ample time to reach your destination;
• Equip your vehicle with all-season tires and carry tire chains;
• If you must abandon your vehicle, park it clear of travel lanes to allow sanding trucks to get through. Cars left in travel lanes may be towed and impounded;
• Dress for the weather in case you become stranded and have to walk;
• Use caution when following a snowplow or sander by allowing at least two car lengths distance;
• Caution children about the dangers of sledding on hilly streets.