HARTFORD, Connecticut – With Thanksgiving travel approaching and colder weather on the horizon, Connecticut officials are urging drivers to ready their vehicles now for the winter season. From Hartford to New Haven, motorists are being reminded that early preparation can prevent costly and dangerous roadside emergencies once snow and ice arrive later this month.
The Connecticut Department of Transportation says November is the ideal time to winterize vehicles. Drivers should inspect tires, check battery health, replace wipers, and top off antifreeze before the first major freeze. Officials also encourage keeping a basic emergency kit in every car — including a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, nonperishable snacks, bottled water, and traction material such as sand or kitty litter.
Holiday travelers using I-84, I-91, and the Merritt Parkway should also plan ahead for longer routes and heavy traffic. “Taking care of maintenance and packing essentials now ensures safer travel when winter weather returns,” a ConnDOT spokesperson said. Motorists are advised to keep gas tanks at least half full, dress in layers, and charge phones before starting long trips.
The state recommends visiting CTTravelSmart.org for traffic updates, storm alerts, and plow information throughout the season. Officials stress that a few minutes of preparation before Thanksgiving can help protect families and reduce delays during one of the year’s busiest travel periods across Connecticut’s highways and backroads.
