It seems that autumn has snuck up on us in the past few weeks.  This last weekend, I was out and about in the District, from Auburn to Iowa Hill, Tahoe City and in my own neighborhood of Donner Summit.  It was truly a "Karma Chameleon" kind of weekend.  And what do I mean by that?  Well many of you may remember that Culture Club song from the early 80's and the line that stuck with me was "Red, Gold and Green" -- that is what the beautiful 5th District looked like over the weekend.  I saw Red Gooseberry fruit on the rocky sierra slopes and Alder leaves along the creeks and rivers, gold quaking Aspens, shimmering Oaks and Willows everywhere, and of course the green of our glorious pines and firs.  Once again I am reminded how very lucky we are to live, work and play where we do!

We've already gotten a brief preview of winter with a slight dusting of snow at the higher elevations and some much cooler temperatures along with a brisk wind coming off Lake Tahoe.  That tells me that it's time to start thinking about winter safety and winter driving strategies both in the rainy Foothills and the snowy Sierra.  

Interstate 80 roadwork is (largely) complete and the new all-weather concrete surface should allow for a better ride for all of us, but it does not guarantee our safety.  Below you'll find some winter driving tips that will make all our travels safer and more pleasant.

Before Heading for Snow Country:

• Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater and exhaust system are in top condition.
• Check your antifreeze and be ready for colder temperatures.
• You may need to add concentrated windshield washer fluid to the windshield washer fluid reservoir to prevent an icy windshield.  
• Check your tires. Make sure they are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition.  Always carry chains and make sure you know if your vehicle is front or rear wheel drive.
• Pre-load the Caltrans Highway Information Network (CHIN) phone number for convenient, updated road conditions.  800.427.7623

• Allow enough time. Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter that other times of the year, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
• Slow down. A highway speed of 65 miles per hour may be safe in dry weather, but an invitation for trouble on snow and ice. Snow and ice make stopping distances much longer, so keep your seat belt buckled and leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas are not. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.
• Be more observant. Visibility is often limited in winter by weather conditions. Slow down and watch for other vehicles that have flashing lights, visibility may be so restricted during a storm that it is difficult to see the slow moving equipment.

Be courteous, show other's the respect that you would like them to show you, and drive defensively, but not agressively.  We all want to arrive safely and enjoy our Placer County  winter wonderland!  For more road travel tips and information, visit the Caltrans Highway Information Network (CHIN).  Be safe out there and as always, if Jocelyn, Steve or I can be of help, please let us know.

All My Best - Jennifer Montgomery