Here in Columbus, Ohio, winter can be wet, cold and downright nasty. Although the weather can fluctuate from sunny and warm to overcast and snowy overnight you should always be prepared to drive in the worst weather conditions. Here are some helpful tips to keep you safe on the road.
Is your Car Prepared?
- Make sure you have plenty of gas. The more gas in the tank, the more weight you have in the vehicle. You also discourage condensation build up which may freeze in your fuel line.
- Make sure your fluids are correct. Windshield wiper fluid is great to rid your car of dirt and muck that builds up on the road. Correct oil, transmission and brake fluid levels are also key to make sure your car runs smooth.
- How old are your tires? The more traction available, the better off you are in a slide. Make sure your tires’ tread is not worn down ahead of time.
- Get a new battery if you know your battery is weak or failing. Better to pay now than be stranded in a cold parking lot because your battery was old.
- Warm up the car correctly. The best way to properly warm up a car is to drive it. Jump in and enjoy the cold until your car is warm enough to blast the heat.
Are you prepared?
- Take routes you know. Unfamiliar roads can be treacherous in the snow. Signs may be snow covered or the road shoulder may be narrower than you thought. There may be a spot that always gets slick with black ice that you are unaware of.
- Do you have an emergency kit? Keep a bag in the trunk with the essentials to get you through a cold night. A flashlight, gloves, warm hat, blanket, ten dollars cash, jumper cables, and a few tools such as a shovel and wrench set. All of these things may help get you out of a bind.
- Dress for the weather. Accidents happen and it may or may not be your fault. You may have to stand in the cold for more than ten minutes so make sure you have on a coat and pants before stepping out in to freezing weather. Flip flops may be easy to throw on and go but you’ll wish you strapped up those boots before getting in the car.
