Written by Walter D.

Saturday, 19 December 2009 23:20

The key element of winter driving is staying in control of the vehicle. This can be a little more difficult than in summer conditions as the road conditions tend to be slippery and breaking distances are greatly increased. Key is to adjust your driving behavior to allow for braking on slippery surfaces. Keep a safe distance between vehicles and think ahead. Make sure you know how to handle a skid as they are very common during winter driving.

Preparing For winter Driving

Maintenance check-up and Pre Trip Preparations.

Make sure your battery, belts, hoses, oil, brakes, tires, heater, defroster and wipers are in good working order. Make sure you have sufficient wiper fluid to help clear your windshield. (Make sure the wiper fluid you use is weather rated to well under the expected temperature in your region.) Also make sure to clear Snow and Ice Off your vehicle. Make sure there is no snow on your windows or covering your light. It is also advisable to clear snow from your hood and side mirrors. Often snow can be blown back on the windshield if you have not cleared you hood. Have your tires checked or replaced before winter begins. Remember to check tire air pressure frequently, as it decreases in cold weather.

Tires

Have your tires checked or replaced before winter begins. Remember to check tire air pressure frequently, as it decreases in cold weather. Generally it is a good idea to use proper winter tries, making sure they have sufficient tread left. Tires have wear indicators, keep an eye on them. (Wear indicators are small bars of rubber found between the tread blocks of a tire. When the tread is worn flush with the tread wear indicators, the tire has reached its wear limit should be replaced)

Winter Survival Kit

It may be a good idea to have some basic survival items in you car in the unlikley even of becoming stranded. Recommended items would be:

Ice scraper/snow brush
Shovel
Sand or other traction aid
Tow rope or chain
Booster cables
Road flares or warning lights
Gas line antifreeze
Flashlight and batteries
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Small tool kit
Extra clothing and footwear
Blanket
Non-perishable energy foods – e.g., chocolate or granola bars, juice, soup, bottled water
Candle and a small tin can
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