Winter Weather Reminders

It may not seem like it here in Wisconsin, but it is winter. It’s never too late to be reminded of some important winter safety tips and preparations.

First things first, when driving in the cold have your vehicle ready to go. Unless you can do it yourself, have a mechanic check your brakes, ignition, wiring, hoses/fan belts, spark plugs, distributor, filters, battery, tires, and antifreeze. Even though you may be in the clear as far as mechanics go it is always best to keep a cold weather safety kit in your vehicle. The National Safety Council advice you to have at least a half a tank of gas, fresh antifreeze and with you at all times:

·      a fully inflated spare tire

·      windshield cleaner

·      compass

·      matches in a waterproof container

·      shovel, tool kit

·      salt/kitty litter

·      scissors

·      ice scraper

·      flashlight with extra batteries

·      first aid kit

·      scissors

·      non-perishable food

·      blankets/mittens/hats/socks

·      reflective triangles/flares

·      string/cord

·      jumper cables

·      tow/tire chains

Being prepared is important even for the safest of drivers. During times of low visibility or very slippery roads there can be any number of surprises to a driver. AAA recommends a few driving tips to help you avoid a crash:

·      Never mix radial tires with other types of tires

·      Avoid using your parking brake to slow or stop

·      Do not use cruise control in wintery conditions

·      Look and steer in the direction you want to go

·      Accelerate and decelerate slowly

·      Increase following distance to 8 to 10 seconds

·      Know whether you have anti-lock brakes, which will "pump" the brakes for you in a skid

·      If possible, don't stop when going uphill

·      Keep your gas tank at least half-full

·      If you do get stranded, don't try to push your vehicle out of snow

·      Signal distress with a brightly colored cloth tied to the antenna or in a rolled up window

Check the weather before driving and whenever possible try making alternate driving arrangements. If it is not possible to change your driving necessity, then be safe by using these tips from this article.

Information found in this article was used from National Safety Council and AAA websites noted which are noted below.

More winter driving information and safety can be found at:

http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/news-and-resources-winter-your-car-and-you.aspx

http://exchange.aaa.com/safety/roadway-safety/winter-driving-tips/#.VnLmob_-mwM