More cold, snowy weather headed our way

AAA encourages drivers to be prepared for the forecasted weather

By AAA of Western and Central New York

Extremely cold temperatures and negative wind chills are expected this week, along with significant snowfall. AAA Western and Central New York is making sure drivers are prepared for what lies ahead.

On Jan. 21, AAA WCNY handled nearly 4,300 calls across WNY and CNY – that’s triple the normal call volume for a typical January day. Most calls were for dead batteries and tows.

Due to the forecasted severe weather conditions and bitter cold temperatures, we are expecting extremely high call volume. AAA prioritizes service requests in an effort to assist members who are in dangerous roadside conditions first. If you are in an emergency situation, don’t hesitate to call 911 for assistance. Member safety is of the utmost importance at AAA, and roadside rescue is our primary concern. If you are at home or in a safe location, we appreciate your patience as we try to ensure the safety of those on the road first.

For your own personal safety:

• Be prepared.
• Dress warm and carry extra clothes, including an extra hat, gloves, mittens and extra warm socks.
• Make sure your gas tank is full, put at least one blanket in your car as well as a shovel in your trunk.
• Carry bottled water and a few high-protein snacks in case you do get stranded.
• Ensure you have your cellphone and a charger.
• Let someone know where you are going and keep in touch.
• Don’t travel alone unless you have to.

To request roadside assistance, call 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357), visit our website or download the AAA mobile app. Please keep in mind that we may be unable to provide service in areas that are under travel bans. Please refer to your town or county website for further information.

As upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA Western and Central New York provides more than 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.