Winter Tips
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It is absolutely vital that a good following distance be maintained when driving under adverse conditions. A good distance is:

bulletRAIN CONDITIONS - minimum of a 4-5 second following distance
bulletSNOW CONDITIONS - minimum of a 8-10 second following distance
bulletICY CONDITIONS - minimum of a 12-15 second following distance

Keeping a good following distance under adverse conditions allows us more time to react in case of an emergency.

In winter we alter our style of driving to cope with the ever-changing road and weather conditions. We:

bulletdo things sooner and more smoothly
bulletprepare ourselves mentally for driving conditions
bulletprepare our vehicles for the winter weather.

Prepare your vehicle by having a winter tune-up. The includes:

bulletbelts, hoses, battery, radiator, oil
bulletcoolant/anti-freeze, lights, brakes
bulletwindshield wipers, exhaust system, heater
bulletdefroster, ignition, electrical system.

Always ensure that snow and ice are cleared from windshield, side window and rear windows, roof, lights and mirrors, before heading out.

Keep washer fluid reservoir full with a spare gallon of washer fluid in the trunk.

Never let the gas tank fall below the half-full level.

In bad weather before a vehicle passes you from either direction, get the windshield wipers and washers going before the vehicle passes you. This will ensure your windshield remains clear.

The posted speed maximums are for ideal conditions. Under adverse conditions, the maximum speed is your good judgment - slow down. Remember, it is always illegal to exceed the posted speed maximums.

Maneuver slowly and smoothly. Sudden acceleration or braking could result in a skid.

If embarking on a long trip, advise someone of your route, destination and expected time of arrival.

Keep a winter survival kit in the vehicle. This should include items such as:

bulletice scraper and brush
bulletsnow shovel
bulletsand or other traction aid
bulletextra washer fluid
bullettraction pads or sand
bulletjumper cables
bulletblankets and extra warm clothing
bulletnon-perishable food and water
bulletmats, candle and spare batteries
bulletfirst aid kit and small tool kit.
bulletflashlight
bulletflares
bulletgood spare tire, jack and wheel spanner
bulletcell phone with charging device

It is advisable not to wear thick boots while driving. Always have a normal pair of shoes in the car to change into before driving. With thick boots, we loose the "feel" of the pedals.