USING GPS IN WINTER Winter officially begins on December 21st and comes with an important reminder to drive with extra care. The Oregon Department of Transportation has some excellent tips to keep in mind when using GPS to navigate this winter: Most navigation tools don't take current road or weather conditions into consideration. They may direct you onto remote roads that are neither maintained or passible in all weather conditions. Because of this, here are a few tips to consider: What you can do: • Be aware that the app on your phone or in your GPS device might not have the latest information. Don't follow it blindly! • Use TripCheck.com (available online and on your phone) before you go to get the latest on state road conditions. You can also call 511. • Remember, in winter conditions (or in summer's fire season), roads can be impassable, so use common sense. • If you are not familiar with an area and current road conditions, stay on state roads and don't attempt detours onto roads you don't know. • Alter your travel plans. If you are not sure of the route and conditions your device directs you to, ask local folks for information and consult a map. It is better to stay the night in town rather than be stuck on a remote road in the middle of nowhere. What ODOT will do: • ODOT crews work continually to keep state highways safe, but during certain conditions, such as blowing snow and freezing temperatures, you may want to avoid travel altogether. • ODOT will issue media flash alerts if roads are closed. These will be updated continually on TripCheck.com.