Weather preparedness and Corbin officer save woman stranded on interstate

CORBIN, Ky. – One woman had a close call when she became stranded on the interstate during winter conditions in Kentucky.

On Tuesday, the Corbin Police Department shared a post to Facebook saying that K-9 patrolman Brentley Patrick was traveling on Interstate 75 in Corbin when he saw a vehicle that appeared abandoned on the side of the road.

When Patrick saw a light flicker inside, police say he turned around and checked on the vehicle.

Inside, police say Patrick found a woman shivering with her lips blue. During this time, the temperature was around 9 degrees Fahrenheit outside.

Police say the woman stated she had run out of gas two hours prior and was stranded and waiting on roadside assistance.

She said her first request was unanswered, so she called the nearest wrecker service just before the officer arrived.

While waiting for help, police say she used a blanket and hand warmers and stuffed the window seals with tissue paper while using a small tea candle to stay warm.

Authorities say Patrick got the woman into his patrol vehicle, turned up the heat and made sure she was safe until a towing vehicle arrived to get her vehicle running.

Police say the incident is a reminder of how fast winter conditions can become life-threatening.

Hypothermia is possible within minutes, especially if you are still and exposed to extreme temperatures. To stay safe, officials remind the public to always keep your gas tank full, carry an emergency kit and essentials, such as a phone charger and blankets, to keep your phone charged and let someone know your travel plans ahead of time.

The department thanks Candidos Towing for its prompt response.