A "warning" has been issued for all college students during this time of the year in the wake of three tragic accidents.
Three NCAA college athletes, including a football player, a hockey player and a track star, have been killed in tragic accidents. The football player and hockey player were killed in tragic snow-related car accidents.
Joseph Boutros, a 21-year-old Salve Regina University football player, was killed when he suffered carbon monoxide poisoning while attempting to start his car in the snow. The college football player's car was covered in snow following the massive blizzard this week. He had difficulty getting his car moving and ended up passing out, and ultimately dying, from carbon monoxide poisoning.
"This tragic incident was accidental and a reminder to be vigilant to keep exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris when vehicles are idling," Newport Police Capt. Joseph Carroll said in a news release.
Tragically, a hockey player at Niagara University was killed in a single-car accident on Monday amid the deadly snowy conditions.
“Bradly brought energy, commitment, and a strong spirit of friendship to our campus,” said Niagara University President James Maher. “His loss is deeply felt by his teammates, classmates, and professors. We hold Bradley’s family in our prayers as they face this unimaginable loss.”
In the wake of these deaths, a "warning" has been issued for anyone traveling in the snow at this time of the year:
- When winter storms strike, do not drive unless necessary.
- Keep vehicles clear of ice and snow. Good vision is a key to good driving.
- Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert. Remember, snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.
Some of the most important tips include:
- Schedule extra time for winter travel and be patient during ice and snow removal operations.
- Never follow a snowplow too closely or attempt to pass one. Remember that the highway ahead of the plow is usually snow-covered.
- Assume that bridge surfaces are slippery, as they freeze more quickly than road surfaces.
- Be wary of black ice, which can be difficult to see but makes conditions slippery when pavement temperatures are below freezing.
- Have a cell phone handy and charged.
- Equip your car with emergency supplies.
- Inform a responsible person of your destination, intended route, and estimated time of arrival.
- Keep calm and do not panic in case of a vehicle breakdown, accident, or if you become snowbound.
- Keep your gas tank full to prevent gasoline freeze-up.
Always make sure your exhaust pipes are clear when idling and running, too.
Stay safe, everyone.