Before you leave, check the forecast and let someone know your route of travel
Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent gas line freezing
Tires: chains provide the most traction followed by studded tires (legal October 1st through May 1st) and regular snow tires
Carry a winter survival kit which should include: blankets, flashlight and extra batteries, a brightly colored cloth, sand (or a bag of cat litter), shovel, candle and matches, non-perishable high calorie foods (nuts, raisins, and candy bars), newspapers (for insulation), a first aid kit and jumper cables.
If you should become stranded:
Don’t leave your car - it’s the best protection you have!
Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna.
Roll down a window a small amount.
Keep the exhaust pipe free of blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Leave the dome light on at night to aid search parties.
Don’t panic - an idling car uses only one gallon of gas per hour.
Drive According to . . . Road Conditions
Allow extra time to get where you’re going
Clear all windows of ice and snow
Remove snow from hood, roof and lights
Slow steady starts prevent needless spinning of the wheels
Pavement is twice as slippery at 32° as it is at 0°
Beware of bridges, underpasses, overpasses, shaded areas and intersections where ice is slow to melt
Slow down - it increases traction
Avoid abrupt stops and starts – slow down gradually and keep wheels turning to avoid getting stuck
Use low beam headlights to decrease glare from ice
Wet pavement can cause hydroplaning at speeds as low as 35 mph - wheels may lose contact with the pavement causing a skid or spin
Drive Defensively!
Wear your safety belt at all times
Don’t tailgate -- always leave a safety cushion of at least two car lengths per 10 mph you’re traveling
When braking on ice apply gentle but firm pressure without locking brakes
Watch for pedestrians - poor visibility and slippery conditions provide hazardous walkways and crossings
Anticipate others’ actions
To regain control during a skid, release brakes and gently steer the car in the direction of skid
Please Remember . . .
Adding weight to the back of your vehicle may alter its handling capabilities.
Don’t decrease tire pressure to increase traction. The only thing this increases is wear on the tires!
