FORT BENNING, Ga., (Jan. 13, 2016) -- As overnight temperatures dip well below freezing, the Georgia Department of Transportation reminds you to turn off sprinkler systems with automatic timers set to run overnight.
"Sprinkler systems that are left on overnight in freezing temperatures can create a hazardous condition for motorists the next morning," said DOT District Engineer Michael Presley. "Every year we see accidents caused by icy spots formed when water from sprinkler systems gets onto the roadway. Spray from the sprinkler is blown onto the road and black ice is formed, creating a hazard for motorists. Please take a moment and ensure your automatic sprinkler system is turned off. Anytime we have sub-freezing temperatures, please be on the lookout for icy patches or black ice, especially early in the morning."
Georgia DOT urges travelers to exercise caution and call 511 for updated information on roadway conditions before getting on the road during a winter weather event. Georgia 511 is a free phone service that provides real-time traffic and travel information statewide, including winter weather closures, reports of icing or other hazardous conditions on interstates and state routes. Callers also can transfer to operators to request assistance or report incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
More information is available at www.511ga.org. For more information on Georgia DOT, visit www.dot.ga.gov. You also may follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GeorgiaDOT or Twitter twitter.com/gadeptoftrans.
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