St. Louis, MO – As winter storms, holiday travel, and increased home heating use rise across Missouri this week, safety officials are urging residents in the St. Louis area to take extra precautions against common winter accidents that historically spike during the holiday season.
According to Missouri emergency management officials, fire departments, and law enforcement agencies, ice storms, rapidly changing road conditions, and heavy travel on major interstates contribute to elevated risks across both urban and rural areas of the state.
Ice Storms and Hazardous Road Conditions
State patrol officials warn that freezing rain can quickly coat roadways, bridges, and overpasses with ice, making travel especially dangerous. Routes including I-70, I-44, I-55, I-64, and I-35 often see increased crash risks during ice events. Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, slow down significantly, and increase following distance.
Rural Road and Holiday Travel Risks
Law enforcement agencies report higher crash risks on rural highways and secondary roads during winter storms and peak holiday travel periods. Officials advise drivers to allow extra travel time, remain alert for untreated roads, and carry emergency supplies when traveling longer distances.
Home Heating and Fire Risks
Fire officials warn that heating-related fires involving space heaters, fireplaces, and overloaded electrical outlets increase during cold snaps. Residents are urged to keep heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials, avoid using extension cords with heating devices, and never leave heaters unattended.
Carbon Monoxide Dangers
Ice buildup and power outages can lead to improper generator use and blocked vents, increasing carbon monoxide risks. 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 travel decisions, and safe heating practices are critical to reducing winter-related injuries and emergencies during Missouri’s busy holiday season.
