Fort Worth leaders are urging drivers to prepare for icy conditions and avoid the roads if possible as a winter storm moves into North Texas, bringing the threat of slick streets and hazardous travel.
City and state crews have been pre-treating major roads and staging equipment across Fort Worth ahead of the ice.
At the same time, first responders – including courtesy patrols with the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office – are preparing for what could be a busy and dangerous weekend.
“The weather is unpredictable, but with this weather right now, we’ll take it slow,” said Bara Loeum, a courtesy patrol officer for Tarrant County.
Courtesy Patrols are considered first responders and will continue to operate throughout the winter weather. In most North Texas counties, these teams patrol major highways to assist stranded drivers.
Each patrol vehicle is stocked with emergency supplies, including gas canisters, flares, jumper cables, tire repair tools and cones. Crews also carry traction pellets to help pedestrians walk safely on ice and a flashing warning banner to alert other drivers when someone is stopped in a dangerous location waiting for a tow.
The patrols can also provide rides to the nearest gas station or safe stopping point to get warm.
“We try to help with just about anything we can,” said Loeum, who is also a former mechanic and can assist with basic car needs in the field.
Loeum’s coverage area spans all of Tarrant County, along with Parker and Johnson counties – a wide stretch of road that can quickly see trouble when ice arrives.
“Accidents. People are not paying attention,” Loeum said. “They’re on their phones. It’s slippery roads. They’re driving fast. They’re not keeping their distance.”
He stressed that slowing down and giving other drivers space can make a big difference, but also offered simple advice for anyone who doesn’t need to travel.
“If you don’t need to drive, don’t drive,” Loeum said. “Just stay home.”
Loeum also reminded drivers not to panic if their vehicle begins to slide.
“If you feel your car slipping, don’t step on the brakes,” he said. “Just release the brakes and let the car coast and slow down.”
Meanwhile, Fort Worth city crews and TxDOT have been treating critical roads, highways and bridges with a liquid brine mixture. Officials say 30 sand trucks are on standby across the city.
Once the storm arrives, crews will prioritize bridges and hospital entrances before moving to major hills and intersections throughout Fort Worth.
Drivers should also plan ahead if they use toll roads. All DFW TEXpress lanes are scheduled to close starting at 1 p.m. Friday ahead of the winter weather.
Mayor Parker said city departments are coordinating closely to prepare, but personal responsibility remains key.
“Once the storm hits this weekend, if you can stay home, please stay home and off the roads. That’s the most important thing for our emergency personnel that are out there as first responders,” she said. “We are prepared…this team of people is working closely together to make sure you stay safe.”
For drivers who do venture out and find themselves in trouble, help is just a phone call away. The statewide courtesy patrol phone number can be found on the back of a Texas driver’s license.
Call 1-800-525-5555 to connect with driver assistance anywhere in Texas.
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