4 tips to get you through winter driving season
We try as hard as we can to forget everything winter brings, but when the windchill and -20°C temperatures return, it’s important to be prepared and remember proper driving techniques as roads get slick with ice. Here are four tips to keep you safe on the road:
1. Winter tires are the support you need. When the temperature drops below 7°C, the grip and function of your all-season tires diminish. Winter tires are essential because they are specially designed for freezing temperatures and the challenging weather conditions winter brings.
2. Make sure your car has enough fluids. With winter comes slush and unpredictable traffic conditions. As a driver, be prepared by ensuring your gas and windshield fluids are always topped up. Keep your gas tank at least half full for the duration of winter, because you never know when you’ll need to keep your engine running out in the cold. We also know that when the snow melts, gross grey slush can splash up and dirty our windshield, so it’s a great idea to keep a container (or two) of windshield washer fluid in your trunk at all times.
3. Find calm while driving. Driving on icy roads, in blowing snow or through whiteout conditions can make drivers very tense. To help avoid even more dangerous situations, drivers should try to remain calm and remember key tips:
* Keep a light grip on your steering wheel – a tight grip can give you hand cramps and make you even more tense
* Reduce your speed to a safe and comfortable one to give you greater control – this will help prevent accidents
* Maintain a good distance from the vehicle in front of you and keep your hands at 9 and 3 o’clock
* Make sure your car is clear of snow before you set off and that your wipers are functioning correctly.
1. Know what to do in a slide-y situation. One of the scariest situations parts of winter driving is when you hit an icy patch. It’s important not to panic or make any sudden manoeuvres. In an oversteer or fish-tail situation, keep your eyes focused on where you want your car to go – not where it’s taking you – and turn your wheel in that direction. If you do find yourself in a ditch or on the side of the road waiting for help, stay with your car (if it’s safe), stay warm, stay visible (put a bright cloth on the antenna and raise the hood), and run the engine and heater only 10 minutes every hour, keeping a downwind window open.
Find more tips on winter preparedness at belairdirect.com.
(www.newscanada.com)