Mammoth Lakes Has Local Volunteers That Assist Vehicle In Non-Emergency Snow Situations

If you live a mountain town that gets flooded with tourists when the snow starts falling, you are likely familiar with the sight of out-of-town drivers hopeless stuck in snow. Sometimes goodhearted locals will take mercy and help these folks out but Mammoth Lakes, California has taken an organized approach to volunteers helping motorists stuck in snow.

The Mammoth Lakes Snow Patrol is a group of residents that work in conjunction with the Mammoth Lakes Police Department, the Mammoth Lakes Fire Department and Mammoth Lakes snow removal operators as supplemental assistance in non-emergency situations to keep the roads clear and the traffic flowing.

It’s incredible what an individual with knowhow and few simple tools (shovel, straps, sands, traction boards) can do when it comes to extracting a vehicle stuck in snow. Cheers to The Mammoth Lakes Snow Patrol!

Town of Mammoth Lakes:

“Even heroes need saving sometimes, which is why we created the Mammoth Lakes Snow Patrol. Snow Patrol is a hearty group of local volunteers that can assist you in a non-emergency snow situation on Town roads.

Snow Patrol can assist vehicles stuck in the snow, abandoned vehicles, vehicles impeding snow removal operations, and individuals that need help installing chains. They are not dispatched upon the request of individuals, but rather, they support First Responders (Mammoth Lakes Police Department/Mammoth Lakes Fire Department) and the Town’s snow removal operators in an effort to clear the minor issues so these groups can take care of the major road issues and lifesaving emergencies.

So even if you are doing your best to be a Snow Smart Hero this winter, don’t be afraid to utilize the Town’s Snow Patrol if you find yourself in a pinch. Driving in winter conditions is a challenge. The best snow smart plan is to go out after roads are plowed or use the Town’s free public transit, but we realize these are not always an option.

This holiday season, please plan ahead, pack your patience and understand the resources that are available to you. Let’s keep your days merry and bright, whether you live and work in our community, or are here visiting.”

Mammoth Lakes Police Department Winter Driving Guidelines:

The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is not to drive at all, if you can avoid it. Don’t go out until the snow plows and cindering trucks have had a chance to do their work, and allow yourself extra time to reach your destination. If you must drive in snowy conditions, make sure your car is prepared, and that you know how to handle road conditions. It’s helpful to practice winter driving techniques in a snowy, open parking lot, so you’re familiar with how your car handles.

Before Heading for Snow Country

Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater and exhaust system are in top condition.
Check your antifreeze and be ready for colder temperatures.
You may need to add concentrated windshield washer fluid to the windshield washer fluid reservoir to prevent an icy windshield.
Check your tires. Make sure they are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition.
Always carry chains. Make sure they are the proper size for your tires and are in working order. You might want to take along a flashlight and chain repair links. Chains must be installed on the drive wheels. Make sure you know if your vehicle is front or rear wheel drive.
Other suggested items to carry in your car are an ice scraper or commercial de-icer, a broom for brushing snow off your car, a shovel to free you car if it is “snowed in,” sand or burlap for traction if your wheels should become mired in snow and an old towel to clean your hands.
It is also a good idea to take along water, food, warm blankets and extra clothing. A lengthy delay will make you glad you have them.
Weather conditions may warrant detouring traffic from the main roadway. It is strongly suggested that drivers always keep an updated map containing the areas of travel.
If you have a cellular telephone, pre-load the Caltrans Highway Information Network (CHIN) phone numbers for convenient, updated road conditions.
Put an extra car key in you pocket. A number of motorists have locked themselves out of their cars when putting on chains and at ski areas.

Driving Tips

Allow enough time. Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter that other times of the year, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm or you may be caught in a traffic delay.
Keep windshield and windows clear. You may want to stop at a safe turnout to use a snow brush or scraper. Use the car defroster and a clean cloth to keep the windows free of fog.
Slow down. A highway speed of 65 miles per hour may be safe in dry weather, but an invitation for trouble on snow and ice. Snow and ice make stopping distances much longer, so keep your seat belt buckled and leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas are not. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.
Be more observant. Visibility is often limited in winter by weather conditions. Slow down and watch for other vehicles that have flashing lights, visibility may be so restricted during a storm that it is difficult to see the slow moving equipment.
When stalled, stay with your vehicle and try to conserve fuel while maintaining warmth. Be alert to any possible exhaust or monoxide problems.

Chain Requirements

R1: Chains, traction devices or snow tires are required on the drive axle of all vehicles except four wheel/ all wheel drive vehicles.
R2: Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four wheel/ all wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels.
(NOTE: Four wheel/all wheel drive vehicles must carry traction devices in chain control areas.)
R3: Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles, no exceptions.

Chain Controls

You must stop and put on chains when highway signs indicate chains are required. You can be cited by the Mammoth Lakes Police Department, Mono County Sheriff’s Department or California Highway Patrol and fined if you don’t. You will usually have about a mile between “Chains Required” signs and the checkpoint to install your chains.
Control areas can change rapidly from place to place because of changing weather and road conditions.
The speed limit when chains are required is 25 or 30 miles an hour.
When you put on chains, wait until you can pull completely off the roadway to the right. Do not stop in a traffic lane where you will endanger yourself and block traffic.
Chain Installers: If you use the services of a chain installer, be sure to get a receipt and jot the installer’s badge number on it. Remember, chain installers are independent business people, not Caltrans employees. Having the badge number may help with any misunderstandings later. Chain installers are NOT allowed to sell or rent chains.
When removing chains, drive beyond the signs reading “End of Chain Control” to a pull-off area where you can safely remove them.