Media Contacts: Erik Linden @ DDOT, 202-671-2004 or Karyn LeBlanc @ DDOT, 202-671-3490

(Washington, DC) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) this morning reminded residents to use extra caution while driving on city roadways. Also, residents should use extreme caution while walking on the District’s sidewalks — many of which are icy due to sub-freezing temperatures overnight.

Residents driving or walking should build in extra time and travel with heightened awareness of wintry conditions.

DDOT and the District’s Department of Public Works (DPW) are continuing to treat and clear District roadways this morning and throughout today, with deployments focusing on residential streets.

DDOT reminds residents and businesses to treat sidewalks in their vicinity and work to make them passable for pedestrians. Drivers, meanwhile, should be well aware that freezing temperatures, even on treated roadways, can create slick conditions where icy patches exist.

Quick tips:

• Use Metro when possible
• Drivers should use extreme caution and maintain safe speeds and distances from other vehicles, and to stay at least 35 feet behind the snow plows
• Remember even a 4-wheel drive SUV does not perform well in ice and additional safety measures should be followed
• Be aware of road conditions, particularly black ice which can be deceptive in its appearance giving the driver a false sense of security on the road
• Assist elderly neighbors who may need help navigating slick steps or sidewalks