The weather outside sure is frightful! It has been very cold and snowy the past few days, so we thought what better time to give you some winter driving tips, than now? Safety is a top priority for Reliable Contracting, and we know that driver safety is close to the top of everyone else’s list as well. Check out the following cold weather driving tips to help keep you safe and warm this winter season.
Follow the “Three P’s”
- Prepare
- Make sure you keep up on the maintenance of your vehicle. The better maintained and taken care of, the more likely it will be ready to face a tough weather situation. Check your antifreeze, battery, tires, and windshield wipers on a regular basis.
- Keep important things on hand. Don’t forget your cell phone, a flashlight, extra batteries, a jumper cable, and salt or kitty litter for your tires. It’s also a good idea to carry non-perishable foods, blankets, a first aid kit, and snow removal aids.
- Plan your route. Make sure you know how long it will take to get where you’re going. Plan around weather for this. Also, make sure that you know what convenience stops are along the way so you can account for gas, food, and other necessities.
- Practice, practice, practice driving in cold weather. It’s the only way to learn.
- Protect Yourself
- You should always protect yourself, but it is especially important for cold weather driving. Always wear your seatbelt properly, and make sure that any child safety seats are also properly used and taken care of.
- NEVER place a rear-facing infant seat in front of an airbag.
- Have children under the age of 12 sit in the back seat; it is much safer.
- Prevent Crashes
- Do not mix drinking or drugs with driving. Always have a designated driver. The holidays can be fun, but it is best to keep them safe as well.
- Maintain at least 4 to 8 seconds of time between vehicles so that if something does happen, you have time to stop.
- Always allow yourself an out. Stay aware of your surroundings and make sure that you have a clear way out in case things go south.
- Get plenty of sleep if you’re going to be making a long trip. Make sure to rotate drivers or at least get out and rest at least every 3 hours. Driving can be stressful on your body, especially in adverse conditions.
- ALWAYS clear all the snow and ice off of your vehicle to make sure it doesn’t end up flying on to another vehicle while you’re driving. Snow left sitting overnight on the top of your car can freeze and is strong enough to break a windshield when it becomes airborne
With these tips and some common sense, you can have a safe holiday season.
If you have any questions about Safe Cold Weather Driving Practices, please contact Anne Arundel County’s largest site-work contractor today by calling 410-987-0313 or visit our website. You can also follow Reliable Contracting on Facebook and Twitter!
Reliable Contracting Company serves the following and surrounding Counties: Annapolis, Queen Anne’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, Howard, Prince George, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.