While snow days typically provide for joyous days with friends, they can provide for some dangerous situations as well.

After taking a trip up to Indianapolis to watch some football, I was on the way back to St. Louis. My Dad and I began the typical four hour trip back home at six o’clock that morning, and I expected to easily make it to work by noon. Our trip did not seem to follow my plan.

Despite about three simple hours of driving, conditions began to become difficult to travel in. I saw many vehicles stranded on the interstate, with tow-trucks a constant sight on the road. We decided to finally play it safe as vision on the road decreased, pulling over to a local gas station. We planned on the stay being limited to an hour, yet we were still stuck there for the next three.

Though frustrating, throughout the course of the day, one could easily witness the highly dangerous conditions. We witnessed many similar to us make a similar decision to leave the road, noting the conditions that increased with difficulty as the day progressed.

Typically, I am not one that is extremely cautious driving, but this storm opened up my eyes to respect the danger of weather. So while you should make sure to ultimately enjoy your snow day, make sure that you ultimately remember why we are off of school, and stay safe.

Ultimately, while the winter weather may prove for frustration, it is always more important to stay safe than rush on the roads to danger.