Are You Prepared For Wyoming’s Most Dreaded Drives
According to a new survey by RV Windshield Replacement.com, the route between Casper and Cheyenne on I-25 is ranked number one of the three most dreaded routes in the state to drive. The other two on the list are I-80 between Laramie and Rawlins, and U.S. Route 287 heading south out of Laramie.
READ MORE: Be Prepared For Winter Weather Storm Blackouts
If you've driven either of those routes, you know exactly why people aren't a big fan. I-25 and I-80 are highly traveled and are known for high wind, weather, and potential closures. Route 287 runs right through the mountains to Ft Collins, so winter driving can be pretty tough.
Sometimes you don't really have much of a choice; you have to travel, and you have to use these routes to do it. It doesn't matter if it's dead of Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall, if you're on the road in Wyoming, they could be dangerous. So spending a few minutes to get yourself and your vehicle prepared before you leave could save your life.
READ MORE: Vehicle Preparedness Is Key To Wyoming Winter Driving
This graphic from WYDOT is a great reminder of the main items you should include in your emergency winter car kit. Your kit should include everything you would need if you become stranded. The Red Cross recommends having at least three days' worth of supplies, which includes water.
You may notice the list says 'canned food'; what other food options do you have?
Unless you have a JetBoil in your emergency kit, which isn't really safe to use inside a closed vehicle, here are other options.
- Protein/ Granola bars
- Nuts
- Trail Mix
- Dried Fruit
- Jerky
- Peanut Butter
- Crackers
- Canned Meat (Tuna, Vienna Sausages, Potted Meat, or Sardines)
- MRE (meals, ready-to-eat) often come with a Flameless Ration Heater
Before you head out, make sure you fuel up, plan your route, check road conditions, and get a sense of the weather forecast. Don't forget that Wyoming 511 is a great source for all that information, and have it on your phone with the app.