Safe Winter Driving Tips

How to prepare for winter driving:

• Plan your driving in advance.
• Avoid driving when fatigued.
• Check weather conditions for your travel route before you begin driving.
• Allow for extra driving time so you aren't rushing.
• Inform someone of your route and planned arrival time.
• Choose warm and comfortable clothing.
• Warm up your vehicle BEFORE driving off. It reduces moisture condensing on the inside of the windows.
• NEVER warm up your vehicle in a closed garage.
• Remove snow and ice from your vehicle. It helps to see and, equally important, to be seen.
• Bring a cell phone if you have one but do not leave it in the car as the battery will freeze.

How to drive in winter weather:

• Buckle up while you are driving.
• SLOW DOWN! Posted speed limits are for ideal travel conditions.
• Be alert. Black ice will make a road look shiny.
• Reduce your speed when approaching snowy intersections.
• Drive with headlights on. This makes your vehicle more visible.
• Keep a large distance between vehicles.
• Steer with smooth and precise movements.
• Be aware of bridges which are usually icier.

What to do if you start to skid:

• Above all DO NOT PANIC!
• Steer in the direction you want your vehicle to go.
• DO NOT BRAKE!
• DO NOT ACCELERATE!

What to do if you get stuck or stranded in snow:

• Don't panic!
• Avoid over-exertion and over-exposure to the cold.
• If unable to shovel your car out, stay inside the car until help arrives.
• Stay in the car in blizzard conditions.
• Turn on flashing lights, set up flares or tie bright clothing to antenna.
• Run the car engine occasionally (about 10 minutes every hour) to provide heat.
• Ensure that the tail exhaust pipe is free of snow.
• Bundle up in a blanket or clothes.
• Monitor for any signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
• Do not fall asleep. If there is more than one person in the car, take turns sleeping.