During the winter months of the year when the snow starts to fall and accumulate on the ground, this can present a hazardous situation on the roads. Sometimes, you simply cannot avoid driving, so when you do get behind the wheel, you need to do everything that you can to ensure that you are safe. Here are a few tips to ensure that you stay protected.
Prepare Your Vehicle
If you have not put on your winter tyres yet, now is the time to do this and give yourself a little more friction on the roads. It is also worth having some salt and grit handy in case you get stuck and need to get yourself free. A snow shovel can also be useful in this situation. Pack some blankets, food, and water into the car in case you get stranded in a remote area. Also, learn much more on how choosing NOAA broadcast frequencies can benefit you. This way, you can stay in tune with emergency reporting that may help you out in a sticky situation. Furthermore, make sure that your phone is fully charged and bring along an extra charging unit if you want extra protection.
Take it Slow
Before you set off on a journey, allow yourself more time than is strictly necessary. This way, you are never going to feel like you are in a rush. It also helps to plan out your journey, taking into account any roads that are more likely to close or present danger. If you want to give yourself even more peace of mind, you could always plan out an alternative route for yourself. When you are driving, reduce your speed to a safe level, as there may be black ice on the road that you cannot easily spot.
Brake Carefully
When you are applying the brakes, you need to be very careful as this can lead to a lock, and you can end up losing steering control as a result. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, apply pressure that is both firm and constant. Always maintain a good distance between your vehicle and the one directly in front of you. In icy conditions, your car could take longer to stop. If you can avoid stopping when going up a hill, this will help to avoid you having to perform a challenging hill start.
Clear Your Windows
Before you get moving, it is essential that you defrost your whole windshield. Make sure that you direct the heat to the windows in order to prevent them from getting fogged up. Use the windshield wipers as necessary if it continues to snow. Ensure that you can see out of the back window and into your mirrors.
Have a Plan if You Get Stuck
If you do happen to get stuck in the snow, don’t simply put your foot down and hope for the best. Straighten up your wheels and accelerate gently. If you aren’t able to get yourself out of the situation, call a tow truck rather than risking your safety.
