Glistening snow, covering rooftops and trees, turns Pennsylvania into a wonderland each winter. Snow means sled riding, making snowmen, and watching the snow tumble from inside your cozy home with a cup of hot chocolate. Winter can be a magical time. But, unfortunately, there are some dangerous places to avoid in Pennsylvania during the winter season. Lucky for you, we’ve scoured the state for the most dangerous places in Pennsylvania, so you can kick back and safely enjoy the season.

1. Icy Roads
Flickr/Carlbb
When the temperatures dip, the roads start to freeze in Pennsylvania. Obviously, it's safer to stay off the roads when they're icy, but that's not always possible. Although PennDOT regularly salts the roads, we'll still run into ice and, even scarier, black ice. One of the best things you can do when facing icy roads is to remember how to overcome a skid. Always steer in the direction in which you want to go.
2. Inexperienced/Nervous Drivers
Flickr/soozums
Driving during the winter can be a significant challenge for even the most experienced drivers. But, for new or nervous drivers, that challenge is even greater. PennDOT recommends that you leave at least six car lengths between your car and the car in front of you. And, of course, slow down when driving in inclement weather.
3. Snow on the Road/Another Vehicle
Flickr/Mike Hauser
How many times have you noticed another vehicle on the road with a huge chunk of snow still on its roof? It's incredibly dangerous for any drivers who happen to be around that vehicle. Should ice or snow fly off of your vehicle and hit another vehicle or individual, you could receive a ticket.
4. Carbon Monoxide
Flickr/Judy van der Velden
Carbon monoxide has been labeled a silent killer for good reason. It doesn't smell and kills very quickly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers numerous tips on how to protect yourself and your family from CO poisoning. Start by adding battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors to your home. Never turn your vehicle on and leave it running in the garage or another enclosed space. Only use a generator that has been professionally installed. Click here for more information.

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5. Getting Stuck in a Snowstorm
Flickr/James Marvin Phelps
We usually have sufficient warning of an impending snowstorm. However, we should always be prepared just in case we somehow become stranded. PennDOT recommends always having a least half of a tank of gas, an emergency kit in your vehicle, and a cell phone.
6. Frostbite
Flickr/Phil Carlton
Frostbite or hypothermia are both dangers during a Pennsylvania winter. If you're outside with exposed skin when it's 0 degrees Fahrenheit and the wind chill is 15 miles per hour, you can suffer from frostbite in as quickly as a half an hour, according to the National Weather Service. Always bundle up when you go outdoors in the winter. And, if you become stranded, stay with your vehicle until help arrives.
7. Deer
Flickr/Rachel Kramer
Pennsylvania is home to a pretty significant population of deer. As with any time of the year, keep an eye out for deer and slow down when approaching one, especially during the winter.
8. Snow Squall/White Out
Flickr/sj carey
White outs happen when we least expect them. And, let's face it, they're scary and incredibly dangerous. PennDOT recommends keeping your low beams on during blowing snow and to slow down. Only pull over to the side of the road when it is safe to do so.
9. Downed Power Lines
Flickr/Sonja McAllister
Downed power lines, which are fairly common during the winter months, can be deadly. Never touch a downed power line and stay as far away from it as possible. Never drive over a downed power line. Instead, contact your electric company immediately and allow professionals to deal with the problem.

So, do you agree? Are these the most dangerous places in Pennsylvania? What are some other dangerous places to avoid in Pennsylvania?

How do you prepare for a Pennsylvania winter? Share your thoughts and strategies with us! Then click here to discover the 10 things you should add to your winter bucket list.

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Most Dangerous Places In Pennsylvania

Daniella DiRienzo | January 12, 2022

What are the most dangerous hikes in Pennsylvania?

There are tons of great hikes in Pennsylvania. There are a few dangerous ones, too. Of all the treks in the state, though, Twin Falls Trail is definitely one of the most dangerous hikes in Pennsylvania. The 7.6-mile trail is filled with its fair share of hazards. For starters, it’s not well maintained, which makes it a bit difficult to follow. Plus, there’s no cell service, so if you do get lost, you can’t call anyone for assistance. An abundance of streams is another hazard hikers face on the trail. Along the trek, there are several streams to cross, most of which can get high, especially after a rain, making crossing difficult.

What are the most dangerous cities in Pennsylvania?

Just like any other state, Pennsylvania has its fair share of dangerous cities. One of the most dangerous cities in Pennsylvania is also the state’s oldest. We’re talking about Chester, which is located in the greater Philadelphia area. According to the website Road Snacks, in 2021, the city had the 2nd highest rate of burglaries in the entire state, with roughly one taking place every day of the year. The city also had the 2nd highest rate of murders per capita statewide. These stats are shocking on their own, but even more so when you consider Chester’s size. On the smaller size, it has about 34,000 residents.

Are there any other dangerous places to avoid in Pennsylvania?

When it comes to dangerous places to avoid in Pennsylvania, the Knights Road and Street Road intersection definitely fits the bill. Located outside of Philadelphia in Bucks County, the intersection has been billed “one of the most dangerous in the nation.” The road’s perilous reputation is contributed to several factors, starting with its unconventional shape. Poor lighting and confusing traffic stops are also among the hazards drivers face when travelling through the treacherous intersection. The unsafe conditions paired with aggressive drivers and unexpected jaywalkers result in countless accidents every year.

 

 

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