Harold, thank you.  That is very helpful.

And thank you to all who responded to my query and especially to those who went beyond to help me in my consideration of what to do.  Bonnie and I have a lot to think about.

Dave

---- Harold Teer <teer.vanagon@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> On Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 9:54 PM, <mcneely4@cox.net> wrote:
>
> >
> > "SEVERE SERVICE EMBLEM OR MOUNTAIN SNOWFLAKE SYMBOL DESIGNATION RATED FOR
> > USE IN SEVERE WINTER CONDITIONS"
> >
> > Does that mean that I don't have to have chains for mountain passes even
> > when the chain up sign is on, if I have these tires?  I believe I probably
> > would chain up if the sign is on, but just wondering about that.  That is
> > the meaning of the mountain snowflake symbol isn't it?
>
>
> Dave,
>
> Here are some links from Washington state and BC which do a nice job of
> explaining Mountain/Snowflake, Chain requirements, etc.
>
> Washington State --- chains sometimes required on two wheel drive vehicles
> even with 4 dedicated snow tires.  All wheel drive vehicles with approved
> tires must carry one set of chains.
> http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/winter/traction.htm
> http://www.wsp.wa.gov/traveler/traction.htm
>
> BC -- looks as if chains are not required if you have approved tires
> http://tranbc.ca/2014/10/01/shift-into-winter-the-inside-scoop-on-winter-tires/
> http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/topic.page?id=81B6C01721884CDDA3FDC932E8678D9B
>
> So yes, no matter which approved tires you select, it would not be bad
> advice to also carry a set of chains for the front tires of the Prius.
>
> Harold
>
> Harold Teer
> 1991 Westy -- VANGAUX
> Harrisonburg, VA
>
>
> >

--
David McNeely