BURLINGTON, Vermont – As Vermonters look ahead to Thanksgiving travel, state officials are encouraging drivers to get vehicles ready now for the season’s first rounds of snow and ice. From Burlington to Montpelier, the message is clear: early preparation is the safest way to handle the unpredictable roads of a Vermont winter.
The Vermont Agency of Transportation says November is the best time to winterize vehicles before storms become frequent. Drivers are urged to check tire tread, battery health, and antifreeze levels, and to replace wiper blades before temperatures drop further. Emergency kits should include a blanket, shovel, flashlight, jumper cables, traction aid, and extra layers of warm clothing.
Travelers heading through the Green Mountains or along I-89, Route 7, and U.S. 2 should also plan for longer response times during storms. “A simple checklist can prevent serious problems once snow starts flying,” a VTrans spokesperson said. Motorists are reminded to keep at least half a tank of gas, carry water and snacks, and make sure cell phones are fully charged before long drives.
The state also recommends bookmarking New England 511 for live road, plow, and closure updates throughout the season. Officials emphasize that preparing vehicles now — weeks before Thanksgiving traffic surges — will help ensure safer, smoother travel across Vermont’s highways and backroads as winter driving conditions return.
