PESOTUM - State troopers have had to do some extra detective work during the recent winter storms.

Some troopers have had to search for accident scenes and off-the-road motorists who don't know where they are along the interstate system. This is a common occurrence now that passersby or people involved in accidents can call from the scene on a cell phone.

"It's a frequent problem when individuals call to report an incident or to ask for assistance. They usually don't know their location. Some who don't even know east from west or north from south," said Illinois State Police Master Sgt. Rory Steidl, who works out of District 10 in Pesotum that covers long sections of Interstates 57, 72 and 74.

It can be more than an inconvenience when the temperature is plummeting and motorists and their young passengers need warm, dry shelter as soon as possible.

One search this week took nearly 90 minutes when an out-of-state driver with a toddler in the vehicle was not sure where she was along a rural stretch of interstate. Fortunately, she received assistance and safe passage without any harm.

Steidl said drivers should remain aware of their general location while driving on the interstate. Other tips include:

- Check a map before starting a trip to see what communities you will pass. Mark off those you have passed during a stop for fuel or food.

- Keep track of the mile markers along the right shoulder of the interstate. These signs are used to pinpoint the location of accidents and problems along the interstate.

- If mile markers are not visible during a whiteout storm or foggy conditions then keep track of exit numbers.

- Use the trip meter on the odometer during a long trip and use that distance when calling for help. That distance traveled could aid state police on an interstate search.

- Encourage children to assist with a mile post count or exit number check. Make a game out of it.

- Make sure the cell phone battery is charged and an emergency travel kit is packed in the vehicle. Stay with a stranded vehicle unless conditions require it to be abandoned.

The convenience of cell phones has some drivers unfazed about keeping orientated on trips, Steidl said. It is possible to track down a cell phone, but it takes time.

hmeeker@jg-tc.com|238-6869