Our Opinion: This weekend, adopt the Boy Scout motto

With last weekend’s lessons still fresh in our mind, we’re preparing for another possible wintry blast this weekend.

As of this writing, the local forecast calls for rain through Friday, followed by an 80 percent chance of snow on Saturday. After that, temperatures could plummet to around 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Even if you’re not a Boy Scout, it might be a good time to adopt the organization’s motto: Be prepared.

The more you can stay off the roads this weekend, the better. If you have the luxury of staying home, curled up with a good book and next to a heat source, well, we’re jealous. But if you have to get out and about for work or other activities, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Make sure your vehicle is in good working order. Check your tires, your oil and other fluids and windshield wipers.

• Drive slower and defensively. Be aware of ice, including black ice, and brake sooner than you normally would.

• Stock your vehicle with an emergency supply kit. That should include jumper cables, a flashlight, blankets, bottled water and snacks — and sand, which could help your tires grip the road if you’re stuck in ice or snow.

• If you’re able to, park your vehicle off the streets to give public works crews the ability to remove snow from all lanes.

Also, prepare at home, especially for the possibility of a widespread power outage. That happened to thousands of Columbia residents this past weekend, as well as a smaller number of Jefferson City area residents.

Have food (more than just hard pasta and raw potatoes), flashlights/candles and other supplies on-hand in your home.

Last but not least, if the weather is bad, check on your neighbors, especially seniors who might need assistance.

News Tribune