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Winter Driving: Prepare for the Unexpected
Unless you live in Miami or other perennially warm climates in this great country of ours, you are probably in the midst of doing battle with the queen of road rage, Mother Nature.
Ol' Mom always has nasty treats in store for us: freezing rain, sleet, ice, snow and yes, blizzards. Are you ready do deal with these winter maelstroms?
If you are, congratulations. With some good luck, you'll make it through our worst driving season in good shape. If you are not ready, you could face serious injury, even death, by not being prepared to deal with the harsh realities of winter driving.
First and foremost, use good common sense when dealing with winter weather. If forecasters are calling for a foot of snow, or if ice storms are on the horizon, just stay home. If you have to work, get there before the storms hit, and prepare yourself for the possibility that you may have to spend the night on the job if you can't get home.
Doctors, public safety personnel and other essential workers are in a unique situation. Many of these people own four-wheel-drive vehicles, which provide superior traction in foul weather. But have you ever noticed that during the worst storms the vehicles you usually see in ditches are of the Sport Utility variety?
Many 4WD owners think that they are invincible in foul weather. Hint to the wise: use your 4WD capabilities as an asset, not as a panacea.
The leading cause of death during winter storms is transportation accidents. Preparing your vehicle for the winter season and knowing how to react if stranded or lost on the road are the keys to safe winter driving. Making sure your car is in tip-top condition will help you to survive on winter's roads. Have a mechanic check the following items on your car:
- Battery
- Antifreeze
- Wipers and windshield washer fluid
- Ignition system
- Thermostat, heater and defroster
- Lights, including flashing hazard lights
- Exhaust system
- Brakes
- Oil level
Be sure you have installed winter tires on your vehicle. Make sure the tires have good tread, and are properly inflated. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs. Other tips for road survival:
*Keep a windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal.
*Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season.
*Listen to the radio or call the state highway patrol for the latest road conditions. Always travel during daylight and, if possible, take at least one other person.
*If you must go out during a winter storm, use public transportation.
*Dress warmly, and wear layers of loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing.
*Carry emergency food and water.
If you are stranded, an emergency kit can mean the difference between life and death. Prepare a kit in advance to include the following items:
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First aid kit with pocket knife and any necessary medications
- Several blankets and sleeping bags
- Newspapers for insulation
- Plastic bags (for sanitation)
- Matches
- Extra set of mittens, socks, and a wool cap
- Small sack of sand for generating traction under wheels
- Small shovel
- Small tools (pliers, wrench, screwdriver)
- Booster cables
- Set of tire chains or traction mats
- Cards, games, and puzzles
- Brightly colored cloth to use as a flag
- Canned fruit and nuts
- Non-electric can opener
- Bottled water
If you are trapped in a car during a blizzard, stay in the car. Do not leave the car to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards. You may become disoriented and lost in blowing and drifting snow. Display a trouble sign. Hang a brightly colored cloth on the radio antenna. Occasionally run engine to keep warm - - about 10 minutes each hour. Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, and open a downwind window slightly for ventilation. Do minor exercises to keep up circulation. For warmth, huddle together. Use newspapers, maps, and even the removable car mats for added insulation.
By being prepared for the worst that winter's storms can bring, you can ensure that your journeys during this time will end with your ultimate goal being reached - - that you make it there safely.
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