Ten Advices

This morning I awoke to a strange surprise - the winter’s first snow. It was then that I realized I haven’t written about safe snow driving on my blog…so here goes.

5. Check Exhaust - Before getting into your car, check the exhaust of your car to make sure it is free and clear of any obstruction, including snow or ice. Why? Because hundreds of people each year die from Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is odorless, tasteless, and has barely any recognizable symptoms. Snow or ice in your exhaust can trap the CO that would normally be exiting your car through the exhaust.

4. Check Wipers/Heating System - It is common to wait until you have a problem to deal with it. The two items you really don’t want to forget about are the wipers and the heating system in your car. Without the wipers, you won’t be able to clear off any snow/sleet/rain during your ride. In fact, cracked or old wipers can actually make matters worse - they tend to leave streaks which block your vision. Don’t try to use your wipers to get rid of the snow when you start your car - you will only be ruining your wipers. Instead, turn on your defroster for 10-15 minutes, and let the layer of ice thaw before using the wipers. Check your heating system as well for leaks, cracks, and enough coolant. Not only will you be relying on the heat your car offers you (so you don’t freeze to death), you will also need to make sure your engine doesn’t overheat (yes, it can happen even in the winter) from the lack of coolant.

3. Check Tires - if your tires are under-inflated or over-inflated they won’t meet the ground like they are supposed to, which will make your car more of a sled than an automobile. Also, make sure your tread isn’t so worn that you won’t get grip.

2. Have Emergency Supplies - This is a good rule of thumb. Anytime you go anywhere, it is wise to have emergency supplies. On the road in the winter, it’s more than a rule of thumb - it’s your life. This means, make sure you have packed into your car:

More gas - you never know when you will get stuck in traffic or get lost, and that would be the worst time to realize you are low on gas. More gas is also helpful because it adds weight to your car, so it slips less.

Blankets - they keep you warm while help arrives.

Water/Meal Rations - to get some energy and stay hydrated. An energy bar is a good choice since it keeps for a few years and has many calories.

Flares - in case you get into an accident or need to alert other people, a flare is great since it is bright and reflects well off of snow.

Radio - a radio lets you hear about possible dangerous weather coming up. Don’t rely on your car radio - if you car battery dies, it won’t be of much use.

Cell Phone - Still the best way to call for help, know the time, and even let emergency services locate you, via the GPS system on your cell.

1. Know Thy Car - You drive your car every day. You give it a nickname. It’s your baby. No one knows it better than you do. Use that; when you drive, keep in mind what advantages or disadvantages your car has, and drive accordingly. For example, in my manual shift car, I drive on low gear to get a better grip on the road. If I know my tires tend to slip, I’ll be even more cautious when braking than other cars on the road. No two cars are the same. No two drivers are the same.