The National Weather Service issued a report at 6:22 a.m. on Friday for dense fog until 9 a.m. for Dillon, Florence, Marion, Williamsburg, Horry and Georgetown counties.
“Areas of fog may become locally dense at times, reducing visibilities on area roadways,” says 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 allocate extra travel time to reach your destination safely.
Visibility priority:Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which also activate your taillights. If you have fog lights, use them.
Avoid high-beams:Refrain from using high-beam headlights, as they create glare that impairs your visibility on the road.
Keep a safe distance:Maintain a generous following distance to account for abrupt stops or shifting traffic patterns.
Stay in your lane:To ensure you are staying in the correct lane, use the road’s lane markings as a guide.
Zero visibility protocol:In situations of near-zero visibility due to dense fog, activate your hazard lights and seek a secure location, such as a nearby business’s parking lot, to pull over and come to a stop.
Limited 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 recommendations, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring your well-being.