Colder weather is bearing down on the commonwealth, which means the winter travel season is nearing. While others are busy preparing the usual turkey feast, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is mobilizing its resources to make sure driving conditions are as safe as possible this season.

“Safety will always be our main concern, and many times we face our greatest tests during the winter months,” Transportation Secretary Joe Prather said. “When winter weather hits, whether it's in the middle of the night, on a weekend or a holiday, our dedicated personnel answer the call. We are extremely fortunate to have a team so devoted to serving others.”

Maintenance crews in all 120 counties are prepared to work as long as it takes and as often as required to keep the roads in the best possible condition during winter weather. KYTC has 320,000 tons of salt and almost 2 million gallons of liquid chloride on hand at numerous locations statewide. The cabinet will use approximately 1,000 state-owned trucks and more than 330 contract snow and ice trucks to keep the roads clear.

Crews used over 250,000 tons of salt and 2.8 million gallons of liquid chloride during the 2007-08 snow and ice season.

Road condition reports for major routes in Kentucky are available by calling 511 or by visiting the 511 travel and traffic information web site at http://511.ky.gov. Conditions are described in the following manner:

Wet Pavement The roadway is wet. Ice could form as the temperature drops.

Partly Covered The roadway is partly covered with snow, slush or ice. Markings may be obscured.

Mostly Covered The roadway is mostly covered with snow, slush, or ice. Roadway markers may be difficult to see because of packed snow and rutting conditions.

Completely Covered The roadway is completely covered with snow, slush, or ice. Markings are obscured.

Impassable Roadway conditions are not suitable for travel unless required by an emergency.

KYTC strives to provide the most descriptive and up-to-date information for motorists so they will know what to expect prior to a trip. Drivers are also reminded that bridges and overpasses are typically the most treacherous under wintry conditions Motorists should always use extra caution when traveling during inclement weather.

“Crashes that occur on wet or slick roads are usually the result of a failure to maintain control, excessive speed, or following other vehicles too closely,” said Chuck Geveden, executive director of the Office of Highway Safety. “We urge all motorists to buckle up, drive cautiously and be alert every time you venture out, especially if you have to drive in less than ideal weather conditions.”

Additional safety tips for travelers during the snow and ice season: