Towing companies experience high call volume as holiday travel clashes with winter storm
WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A winter storm hitting much of the Midwest arrived just as holiday travel is returning to pre-pandemic numbers.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) expects more than two million Wisconsinites will drive somewhere for Christmas and New Year's Day.
Some people tell CBS 58 the snow and ice won't get in the way of their holiday plans.
"People really want to travel for these year-end holidays, and so, a lot of those decisions may not be made right up until the moment of what would be departure," AAA Wisconsin Director of Public Affairs Nick Jarmusz said.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is advising drivers to stay off the roads Friday due to wind and blowing snow.
Local towing services are prepared to rescue anyone who doesn't heed that warning.
"The severe cold does not affect us," Finish Line Towing Manager Tim Nelson said.
Nelson told CBS 58 the company is experiencing a high call volume, as of Thursday evening. He expects it will continue through the winter storm warning.
The roads aren’t too bad yet, but they’re expected to get worse. We’re on our way to talk to a towing service about what they’re seeing tonight and expect to see tomorrow. That, plus AAA talks about safety tips if you get stuck on the road in this weather. Story on @CBS58 tonight pic.twitter.com/JHcZg2zrLn
— Gabriella Bachara (@GabbyBachara) December 22, 2022
He said his crews have an extra sense of urgency in these winter conditions.
"Especially when it's below zero. You don't have a lot of time if someone is absolutely in a spot where no one can get to you or no warm place for you to be," Nelson said.
High call volumes could mean longer waiting times, and it only takes minutes for cold temperatures to become dangerous.
That's why drivers are encouraged to pack for the unexpected.
"You should always be prepared. What if my car doesn't start or what if it leaves me stranded?" Nelson said.
Drivers should pack all of their winter gear, including coat, hat, scarf, gloves and boots, in case they're waiting in the cold.
It's also recommended to keep blankets, food and water in the car.
Drivers should keep all of these emergency items in the passenger portion of the car, so they don't need to step outside to get them from the trunk.
AAA recommends keeping a small shovel to dig your tires out and kitty litter or sand to help regain traction.
If a driver is stuck on the side of the road with nowhere to find shelter, it is recommended they stay in the car with the seatbelt on.
Before departure, AAA suggests checking the car battery and tires. Both can be affected by cold weather.