Winter Driving Safety Tips
Road and weather conditions can change very rapidly- so take the time to note the local forecast and plan accordingly.
Here are some tips that you should note prior to entering the Winter Season:
- Check that fluid levels are adequate- washer fluid and anti-freeze
- Make sure that your wiper blades adequately clear your windshield of snow, rain, sand and salt
- Be sure that your car has plenty of gas to get you safely to your destination- remember that during bad weather conditions- your journey may take longer than expected
- Make sure that you clear your car of all snow prior to heading out on your journey
- Remember to buckle up for safety
- Remember when stopping – allow extra space between the next vehicle
Be prepared in the event that you may become disabled. Check emergency equipment: spare tire, jumper cables, shovel, flashlight, flares, ice scraper, brush and blanket. Travel with additional warm clothing, hat, coat, gloves and warm footwear. In an emergency situation should arise that requires use of the breakdown land, pull over as far to the right as possible in the breakdown land and activate your car’s hazard lights. Use extreme care whenever exiting your vehicle- checking your mirrors for oncoming traffic before opening your door.
Keep this in mind- if you can stay home- stay home….. Don’t put yourself and others at risk.
In southern parts of the U.S. the rule is “If it’s snowing, stay home – period.” No one down here has a clue how to drive in the snow. A few years back I was working in Texas and we had an ice storm. One third of the people in my department made it to work, one third stayed home, and one third got in wrecks on the way to work. Those aren’t good odds!
Keeping an extra warm coat or blanket in the car is another good winter driving tip. If your car breaks down, you will need to really bundle up until help arrives.