'Winterize' Your Car for Safe Driving
The key to preventing an accident is to prepare your car for the cold, winter months and to know what to do if you were to get lost or stranded on the road. Since many of you may be driving in unfamiliar territory this winter while on assignment, the following are a few tips to keep you safe.
- When driving in the winter, it is a good idea to keep a windshield scraper and a small broom to remove ice from your windows. Also, be sure to have at least one half tank of gas in your car at all times.
- Plan your trips carefully. If you must drive in heavy snow or rain, try to plan most of your travel during the day.
- Listen to the radio for current road conditions and weather.If you must go out during a winter storm, try to use public transportation.
- Wear several layers of loose-fit clothing.
Whether you live in areas affected by snow or not, it’s a good idea to keep the following items readily available in your car:
- Water and snack foods such as granola bars
- First Aid kit
- Medication(s) you are taking
- Blankets
- Matches
- Extra set of gloves and winter attire
- Rain coat
- Small bag of sand to create traction under wheels
- Small shovel
- Small tools (pliers, wrench, screwdriver)
- Jumper cables
- Set of tires
- Bright cloth for a flag
- Disposable camera to take pictures of the scene in the event that you’re in an automobile accident
- Emergency road kit (flashlight with new batteries, flares, etc)
- Replacement electrical fuses
If you were to get trapped in a car during a blizzard, stay in the car unless you can visibly see help. Otherwise, put your hood up and place a bright colored piece of material or bright colored flag on the antenna. For every hour that you’re stuck in a car, run the car for about 10 minutes with the heat on. However, make sure to keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow so that you don’t get carbon monoxide poisoning.
While you may not find yourself in a blizzard this winter, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Taking a few extra precautions and raised awareness never hurt anyone. Safe travels to you this winter!
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