Winter Driving Tips

If you must travel, take public transportation whenever possible. If you must use a car, take winter driving seriously. Travel by daylight and keep others informed of your schedule. Drive with extreme caution and never try to save time by driving fast or using back road shortcuts. Also make sure your car has plenty of fuel and is equipped with chains or snow tires.

Keep your car "winterized" with antifreeze. Carry a "winter car kit" that includes a windshield scraper, flashlight, tow chair or rope, shovel, tire chains, a blanket, a bag of sand or salt, a fluorescent distress flag and an emergency flare in case you are trapped in a winter storm. Keep extra outerwear and pre-packaged food in the care. Also make sure your windshield wipers are working properly and there is windshield washer fluid in the car.

If a blizzard traps you in your car, pull off the highway, stay calm and remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Turn on your emergency flashers and hang a distress flag from the radio antenna window. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter. Be careful, distances are distored by blowing snow.

If you run the engine to keep warm, open a window slightly for ventilation. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning. Periodically clear away snow from the exhaust pipe. Exercise to maintain body heat but be sure to avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat as a blanket.

Be careful not to use up battery power. Balance electrical needs such as the use of lights, heat and radio with supply. At night, turn on the inside dome light so that a work crew can spot you.