2. Drink Plenty of Water. Believe it or not, winter weather causes dehydration. Be sure to drink plenty of water before your trip, to not only stay hydrated but also alert and aware of the surrounding conditions. Your thinking will remain sharp, and so will your decisions behind the wheel. And of course it's never a bad idea to have a few bottles of water in the car in case you're stranded for a while.
3. Eat Plenty of Food. The human body needs more nourishment during winter conditions, so be sure to take in plenty of high-energy, high-protein foods before your trip. We're not talking about candy bars or sugar. Instead, eat meats, cheeses, fruits or vegetables; the natural proteins in these substances will keep your brain functioning on a higher level, allow you to stay alert, and promote better decision making in winter driving conditions.
4. Carry a Winter Travel Safety Kit. Be sure to keep a cell phone (with a car charger), flash light, tow rope, jumper cables, ice scraper/snow brush, candle, matches and a portable radio with you in your vehicle during the winter. Blankets and cat litter or sand (for traction purposes in case you slide off the road or become stuck) are also very important, along with food items and extra water. Lock de-icer will also come in handy.
5. Slow Down. Seriously - we're not in a race through the snow to Grandma's house for Christmas. Slow down - reduce your speed by as much as 50% in snowy or icy conditions. Brake earlier, especially when heading into a turn, and accelerate more slowly. Also worthy of note - don't slow down too much. We'll spare you the physics lesson here, but suffice it to say your vehicle will slide off the road if you're going too fast, and it will slide backwards down a hill if you're going too slow. Either way, use your best judgment in the winter conditions. If it doesn't feel absolutely safe, don't do it.
6. Stay Smooth On The Controls. Abrupt acceleration, braking, or turning can be a disaster in winter driving conditions. Remember to stay calm and keep a smooth, light touch when operating your vehicle at this time of year.
7. Know How To Recover From Skids. Avoiding a skid in the first place is a great idea, so once again, stay smooth in your driving techniques. But if a skid does happen and you find yourself sliding instead of rolling down the road, loosen up on the brakes. Allow your tires to gain traction. Steer your vehicle in the intended direction of travel. Remember, the point is to regain traction - so don't be drastic with your driving actions.
8. Keep Your Tires In Good Condition & Properly Inflated. We're tire guys. Trust us on this one. Proper tread depth (at least 1/8") is extremely important to allow your tires their best gripping surface, and proper inflation is equally as important for the same reason. Cold air reduces tire pressure, so check them frequently. It's not a bad idea to carry tire chains as well, especially if you do not specifically have snow tires or studded tires installed for the winter. Also, be sure your vehicle's fluid levels are properly topped off: antifreeze, oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid (as well as windshield washer/de-icer fluid) are very important for the proper operation of your vehicle in extreme winter conditions.
9. Make Frequent Rest Stops. If you're taking a longer drive in winter weather, be sure to stop frequently along the way to remain alert. Get out of your vehicle, take a walk around for a few minutes, do some jumping-jacks or even make a snowman - whatever it takes to stay alert and aware.10. If You're Stuck, Stay Put. Stay in your vehicle, and exit it only to be sure there's nothing blocking the tail pipe. Remaining inside will obviously keep you warmer, safer, and more alert. Call for help, have a snack, and sit tight until the help arrives.
One Last Thought. If you don't have to go out, don't. Stay home. Stay safe, and don't risk it. That cheeseburger will be there tomorrow, and the movie will still be showing after the snow clears up. The bottom line is to stay safe. And of course, if you have any questions, or if you need a winter inspection, snow tires, or other winter services, stop by your local Perfection Tire today or give us a call.
Take care friends, and as always, safe driving.
-Your Friends at Perfection Tire
