It is that time of year to be ready for winter driving conditions. I know many of us who live in the cold country are a hardy bunch and always think we are ready…right?
Well…ask yourself these 8 questions on Being Prepared first. Pay close attention to each but especially #8…each of these can help you be safe while winter driving:
- Is the ice scraper still in the vehicle and in good shape? Are you sure?
(Or did it make it to the kid’s sand pile without your knowledge?) If you have kids or an extra vehicle, it is always best to make sure things are still where you think they are. CLEAN ALL OF YOUR WINDOWS. I see people all the time driving with a small opening scraped...and they have severe limitations on visibility.
- Are your windshield wipers and rear wiper in great condition?
(Or are you like some who prefer streaks and ice on the blades?) change them if they need changing. They are cheap and can save your life.
- Do you have the correct antifreeze in your vehicle? Did you test it?
(Or does it still have just the water put in it that you did when the radiator hose broke on you earlier this summer?) If it has water only…it will freeze and break the engine block or pop the freeze plugs…both are big repairs.
- Do you have blankets in the vehicle and other cold weather gear such as gloves and hat and maybe an extra jacket or coat?
(Or did they get taken out after that chilly ballgame or event you went to and never got put back in?) If you can’t see them…make sure they are in there.
- Do you have emergency supplies in the vehicle such as granola or power type bars and some extra water when you travel?
(Or do you think you will never have a problem and won’t need anything?)
I also carry a small bag with 3 candles, a lighter, and matches in an airtight container.
- Do you carry a shovel in the winter in case you get a little stuck?
(Or do you think AAA or roadside will be there in a few quick minutes?) If you don't but are lucky the guy driving by will stop and help you out. Don’t rely on luck. Carry a GOOD smaller scoop shovel!!
- Did you check your tires and make sure they had enough tread for the winter with the correct air pressure and did you check the spare and make sure it had air in it and there was a jack and correct handle and base to jack up the vehicle and change the tire?
(Or are you thinking that those bald tires will be fine and if not…you will refer to the question 6 prior in parenthesis?) Bad tires cause many bad accidents and deaths each year.
Bonus Tip: Just because your 4 x 4 allows you to speed up faster and go through deeper snow and on ice - IT WILL NOT SLOW YOU DOWN FASTER! Watch your speed and allow ample room to stop!
- Do you know where you are when driving on the Highway?
(Or do you think that GPS that you are using is really accurate and all is fine?)
If you are driving or riding on a highway between towns, you need to pay attention to this information:
Always know what the Highway number is of the Highway you are on (IE: 281, 30, 6, 58, 11, 44, 183, I-80, I-25, etc); the main direction you are going; the towns you are in between and the town you are headed towards. Sounds simple but all of us forget sometimes.
Located every mile along the side of most roads are Mile Markers. See Photo Below. Pay attention to the mile markers for that highway.
Generally speaking, they start from the farthest south or west spot that the Highway begins in your state and go up in number until the highway ends or is the state line to the north or east.
The Mile Markers are GREEN. Knowing where you are can save lives!! Maybe yours!!
And yes - have those emergency supplies with you as we go into winter driving conditions!
Until Next time...
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