Safety Tips For Winter Travel
Every winter the US roadways experience a surge in traffic as sports enthusiasts, students and snowboards drive around the country to temporarily nest in warmer climes. Winter travel can be fun but it is important that you be extra cautious when driving around in snow and icy conditions. Here are a few tips to consider when traveling during the cold season.
If you will be driving, get your car checked out. The last thing you want to have happen is to have your car break down and to get stranded in the middle of a snowstorm. Make sure all the fluid levels are at manufacturer’s specifications, inspect the tires for proper inflation and tread depth, and have the battery checked. If it’s been awhile since your last tune up, have that done before you hit the road. Also, signing up for roadside assistance is a good idea.
Knowing how to drive in snow is of the utmost importance. Even though public services work hard to keep the streets clear, they can only do so much. There is always the chance that you will get caught in a snow down pouring so you should know how to negotiate a vehicle through it. The main skill you want to learn is how to handle skidding. If you get caught in a skid, the thing to remember is to turn the car in the direction you want it to go. Avoid using the brake as this usually only contributes to the problem.
Plan out the route you are going to drive and then use weather tracking tools online to check weather conditions. You want to be aware of the weather is doing your entire trip from start to finish. As a precaution, give a copy of your planned route of travel to a trusted friend. If you do not make it to your destination, then the search party will have an idea as to where to start looking for you.
Don’t forget to pack a travel kit. Your travel pack should have a basic first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, a knife, a compass, a tow rope, jumper cables, kitty litter to help aid traction, ice scraper, water, extra blankets, non-perishable food, matches, portable radio and de-icer. Also, don’t forget to bring along your cell phone’s car charger.
It is important to carry enough food and water with you just in case you get stranded. Your body needs more nourishment in cold weather than it does in summer, so always travel on a full stomach. Take about 6 bottles of water and a days worth of food or assorted healthy snack items in the car with you as they might freeze if stored in the trunk.
You must maintain alertness to get through the snow which may cause you to get tired more readily. Make a point of stopping every 60-90 minutes to refresh yourself. Stretch your legs, breathe some fresh air. Even a five minute break is enough to restore focus.
Winter travel can be fun and exciting. However, if you are unprepared the trip could turn into a nightmare. Avoid this by taking the time to bring together all the tools you’ll need for a safe trip. Use common sense, take your time and enjoy the ride.
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