Sheriffs urge caution on area roads

The Cass and Crow Wing county sheriffs offices released a joint statement Friday urging extreme caution on area roadways this winter.

Cass County Sheriff Randy Fisher and Crow Wing County Sheriff Todd Dahl said weather conditions have made it difficult for highway departments to clear icy roads. Fisher and Dahl said county highway crews, along with the Minnesota Department of Transportation and cities and townships, have been working "nonstop scraping, sanding, salting and grinding in an effort to clear the roads.

However, the combination of temperatures, frost and small amounts of snow has made it difficult to clear the roads. Warmer weather and the cooperation of Mother Nature is what we need to melt the snow and ice off the roads.

"Our message to all motorists is to slow down, allow plenty of space for stopping and turning vehicles and drive defensively. Avoid distractions while driving, such as cell phones and other devices. Now is the time to use winter driving survival practices such as, telling friends and family of your winter driving trip, having warm clothes and a blanket in your vehicle, making sure your cell phone is charged, and be aware of the driving conditions and weather advisories for your selected route."

Fisher and Dahl said motorists should remember that everything possible is being done to make the journey safe and they urge motorists to have patience and drive safely.