The National Weather Service issued a report at 5:46 a.m. on Wednesday for dense fog until 9 a.m. for Horry and Georgetown counties.
“Patchy dense fog is expected through around daybreak reducing Visibilities on area roadways to one quarter of a mile or less,” according to the weather service.
The weather service comments, “If driving, slow down and leave extra distance ahead of you in case a sudden stop is needed.”
This alert is in effect until 9 a.m.
Fog safety: Tips from the weather service for safe travels
If you need to drive through fog, remember these safety guidelines:
Moderate your speed:Slow down and allow extra travel time to reach your destination safely.
Visibility matters:Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which automatically activate your taillights. Utilize fog lights if your vehicle is equipped with them.
Avoid high-beams:Refrain from using high-beam lights, as they create glare, making it more difficult for you to see what’s ahead of you on the road.
Keep a safe distance:Leave a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you to account for sudden stops or changes in the traffic pattern.
Stay in your lane:Use the road’s lane markings as a guide to remaining in the correct lane.
Zero visibility protocol:In extremely dense fog where visibility is near zero, the best course of action is to first turn on your hazard lights, then simply pull into a safe location such as a parking lot of a local business, and stop.
No parking options:If no parking area is available, pull your vehicle as far to the roadside as possible. Once stationary, turn off all lights except the hazard flashers, engage the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to ensure your tail lights are not illuminated, reducing the risk of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.
By adhering to these weather service precautions, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring your personal safety.
