Indianapolis, IN – As winter weather, holiday travel, and increased home heating use rise across Indiana this week, safety officials are urging residents in the Indianapolis area to take extra precautions against common winter accidents that historically increase during the holiday season.
According to Indiana emergency management officials, fire departments, and law enforcement agencies, flat open roadways, rapidly changing winter conditions, and heavy interstate travel contribute to elevated risks across both urban and rural parts of the state.
Ice on Interstates and Open Roadways
State police warn that Indiana’s flat terrain allows ice to form quickly on highways and rural roads, often with little visual warning. Routes including I-65, I-69, I-70, and I-74 frequently see increased crash risks during freezing conditions. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, avoid sudden lane changes, and allow extra stopping distance.
Snow Squalls and Sudden Visibility Drops
Northern Indiana drivers face additional risks from fast-moving snow squalls that can cause rapid whiteout conditions. Officials advise motorists to slow down immediately when visibility drops and avoid unnecessary travel during snow bursts.
Home Heating and Fire Risks
Fire officials report an increase in heating-related fires involving space heaters, fireplaces, and overloaded outlets during cold snaps. Residents are urged to keep heating devices at least three feet away from flammable materials and never use extension cords with space heaters.
Carbon Monoxide Dangers
Improper use of fuel-burning appliances and generators during winter outages can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide exposure. Officials stress the importance of working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home and warn against operating generators or grills indoors or inside garages.
Safety officials say preparation, cautious driving, and safe heating practices remain critical to reducing winter-related injuries and emergencies during the busy holiday season.
