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Combating winter’s ice, snow and slush requires more attention than other seasons. Therefore, it is vital to stay informed on German standards for winter weather conditions and understand where to obtain base operations and weather updates.
“We, as Americans, are guests in Germany and must follow all winter weather safety guidance,” said Lt. Col. Kyle Korver, 86th Mission Support Group deputy commander. “It’s every Airman’s responsibility to ensure the safety of their home, vehicle and family prior to inclement weather setting in. It’s the little things we can prepare for up front that could prove valuable when you really need it.”
Late reporting and closure decisions are normally announced no later than 5 a.m. the day of a weather event. Early release decisions, likewise, are normally made by 10:30 a.m.
KMC families may receive updated weather information and road conditions by several means. Families may call a hotline at 06371-47-2653 or on base at 480-COLD (2653). Families may also visit www.ramstein.af.mil and click on the weather tab. Army personnel may access their safety and road conditions on the Installation Management Command Europe website. Ramstein’s Facebook and Twitter pages are also a valuable resource for weather-related closures, as is the U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Facebook page. Families may also tune to Armed Forces Network Television and Radio 100.2 FM for weather closure updates. Finally, the Ramstein Air Base Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android phones provides live updated information on road conditions via push notifications.
Another avenue to receive road condition and closure notifications is through the AtHoc system, which can be set up to send automated texts to your personal e-mail or phone. AtHoc is a mass-warning notification system that makes it easier for all service members, civilian and contractor employees, and family members across Europe to receive emergency warnings and notifications specific to their geographic location. Anyone with a CAC can register for AtHoc notifications within the KMC from their work computer or from a computer with a CAC-reader at: https://warnings1.army.mil/SelfService/2026327.
School buses often have difficulty traveling to some bus stops and low temperature areas may be dangerous to children waiting at bus stops. During periods of inclement weather, parents should check the above information sources for updates on road conditions and impacts on school bus operations.
Regardless of the advertised road condition, safety is paramount, said Greg Fobell, 86 MSG plans and programs officer.
“Since the KMC is comprised of fifty villages, keep in mind conditions in villages or cities may be distinctly different than conditions commuting to or on base,” Fobell said. “Safety is paramount and if you don’t feel safe contact your supervisor.”
There are several key items to be mindful of when preparing for a winter in the KMC.
“Depending on your lease agreement, be aware that it is the off-base residence’s responsibility to keep their walkways clear,” Fobell said. “Tenants can be liable for injuries occurring on their property as a result of neglecting to keep their property cleared.”
Keep a shovel, approved ice melting materials and sidewalks or driveway cleaning supplies on hand to maintain property.
After clearing sidewalks or driveways, clean all frost and ice from windows before driving; German law requires snow removal from entire vehicle and may result in a citation. Also, security forces may deny snow-covered vehicles on base.
As you drive, keep a safe distance around all vehicles to allow time to react in hazardous situations and drive according to road conditions, not necessarily the speed limit.
“Remember, ice isn’t always visible when it is the color of the road,” Fobell said. “Sometimes, it doesn’t melt at the same rate in shaded areas as it may on road surfaces that are exposed to the sun.”
Obtaining the appropriate tires is also essential to avoid roadway hazards.
German law mandates that all motor vehicles must have all-season or winter tires mounted during winter conditions to prepare for snow, ice, black ice, frost, and slush. The penalty for driving without the proper tires is €40 plus one point added to your license.
KMC members must equip their vehicles with winter tires from October to Easter.
Also, the danger in driving with worn or bald tires rises during the wet, cold weather season. Worn or bald tires can be deadly on wet roads and may result in hydroplaning because the grooves aren’t deep enough to channel water out from beneath the tread, and the tread skims the water’s surface.
The minimum tire tread depth in accordance with German law is 1.6 millimeters yet recommends a minimum of 4.0 millimeters.
To quickly measure the depth without a gauge, place a two euro coin in the groove of a tire. If the coin’s silver rim is visible, the tire’s depth is less than 3 millimeters and should be replaced.
Furthermore, people should inspect their cars thoroughly prior to the cold setting in, to include but not limited to brakes, wiper blades, emergency equipment and the inflation of the spare tire.
For questions on how to further winterize your vehicle, contact the 86th Airlift Wing Safety office.
School buses often have difficultly traveling to some bus stops, and low temperature areas may be dangerous to children waiting at bus stops.
Caring for one another is essential to Airmen’s well-being this winter. The 86 MSG advises KMC families to stay informed on weather condition resources.
“Situational awareness is a key aspect to maintaining mission readiness,” Korver said. “If you’re new to Germany or know of a KMC member new to the area, help them understand the winter conditions standards and the resources available to them. We need everyone’s help to look out for one another.”
