Illinois Tollway Launches 24-Hour Zero Weather Road Patrols

CHICAGO (CBS) -- The Illinois Tollway is launching Wednesday around-the-clock 'Zero Weather Road Patrols' to aid stranded drivers during the Wind Chill Advisory.

The severe cold and dangerous wind chills are anticipated to continue through Friday.

The Illinois Tollway operates 'Zero Weather Road Patrols' whenever temperatures or wind chills fall below zero degrees.

"These patrols provide additional protection day or night for our customers who are traveling in these dangerously cold conditions," said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Greg Bedalov, in a statement. "The Illinois Tollway's first priority is ensuring the safety of drivers using our roadways, particularly during severe weather. We remind our customers to help protect themselves if they become stranded by remaining in their vehicles and calling *999 for assistance."

The 24-hour patrols search for stranded drivers and respond to *999 calls. The 'Zero Weather Road Patrols' will be in addition to the Illinois Tollway's Highway Emergency Lane Patrol (H.E.L.P.) trucks, which run from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday - the difference is 'Zero Weather Road Patrols' provide 24-hour coverage, including on weekends.

The Illinois Tollway offers a list of travel tips with driving in cold weather:
- Be sure your cellphone is fully charged before heading out.
- Be sure tires are properly inflated during cold weather.
- Maintain your vehicle properly. Be sure that lights, brakes, windshield wipers,
defrosters, radiator and other parts are in good working order and always keep your
gas tank at least two-thirds full to minimize condensation.
- Consider using winter or synthetic motor oil for colder temperatures.
- Prepare an emergency car care kit.
- Stranded motorists should turn on their emergency lights and remain in their vehicles until
help arrives.
- Call *999 for roadway assistance.
- Check your vehicle at an Illinois Tollway oases.