With winter weather already upon us
in some parts of the country and
quickly approaching in others,
Senate would like to offer a few
tips to help ensure you and your
vehicles safety throughout the
coming winter months.
Prepare your vehicle for cold
weather driving:
- Have your battery serviced
- Check all fluid levels
- Check all lights and
windshield wipers to make sure
they are in proper working
order. Change them if necessary
- Examine your tires to ensure
maximum performance
Having your tires checked is very
important, especially during the
winter. Are your tires rated as
all-season tires? Are they properly
inflated? The answer to both of
these questions may very well be no.
Remember, your tires are your first
and last defense against bad
weather. Have them checked!
Be prepared for an
unexpected emergency
Always carry with you a winter
car kit in case of an unexpected
emergency. Here are a few items that
are essential to a quality kit.
- Flashlights with extra
batteries
- First aid kit
- Several blankets
- Matches
- Rain gear
- Small shovel
- Jumper cables
- Bottled water and canned
fruit and vegetables
- Always remember to keep your
gas tank at least half full
Slow down and allow extra
time
The biggest hazard of winter
driving is slippery roads. Drive
carefully and defensively. Always
keep in mind how far it takes to
bring your car to a stop on dry
pavement. In winter conditions,
allow at least three times that
distance to reach a full stop and
avoid skidding. This means your safe
distance behind the car in front of
you should be three times as far.
And you must begin braking three
times as far away from the stoplight
or corner where you turn.