Here it comes… the first major storm of the winter season is heading straight for the Midwest and our city is looking to get hit with at least 8 inches of the white stuff. I’m not looking forward to driving to church tomorrow morning given that the road crews will have barely started clearing the highways before we have to head out.
Even if your neck of the woods is escaping this round of bad weather (although I hear it is headed for the East Coast as soon as it hits us) it’s as good a time as any to revisit some important winter driving and survival tips.
For example:
Prior to leaving your parking spot you should clear all the snow and ice from your vehicle to improve visibility. Don’t forget to brush off your hood, roof, trunk, turn signals, taillights and headlights.
Also, before you get to a high traffic area, anticipate dangers including ice on bridges, hidden lane markings, stalled cars and poor visibility.
Slow Down! You might think that you are a pro at driving in winter conditions, but remember there are others on the road too. When visibility and road conditions are impaired, increase the distance between you and other vehicles.
Practice proper winter braking techniques. For cars without anti-lock brakes, apply the brakes just short of lock-up, and then ease off the brake pedal slightly. For vehicles with anti-lock brakes, continuous, firm braking is necessary to activate the anti-locking feature.
Avoid skids by easing off the accelerator and not locking up the brakes. If you find yourself in a skid, gently steer in the direction you want your vehicle to go and straighten the wheel as soon as the car begins to go in the desired direction.
During the winter months it’s a good idea to pack a survival kit and leave it in the trunk of your vehicle. Include items such as a cell phone, ice scraper and brush, extra boots, gloves, hat, a blanket, tools, a flashlight, tire traction material such as sand or cat litter, a shovel, jumper cables, flares or a reflective triangle, non perishable foods such as trail mix or granola bars, and a first aid kit.
Related Articles:
Winter Driving: I’m Stranded-What Do I Do Now?
Winter Driving—Tips On How To Navigate Through Treacherous Travel Conditions
Preparing For Your Road Trip:
Part 1
Preparing For Your Road Trip: Part 3