- 4 Ways to Prevent Roof Collapse This Winter
- 3 Key Elements of Safe Winter Driving
- Walk Safely on Ice (Like a Penguin)
- It’s Cold Outside: Dress to Protect
- Recognize Dangerous Warning Signs of Frostbite and Hypothermia
- Protect Your Business from Winter Slips & Falls
- Prepare for Hazardous Winter Travel
- Don’t Let Ice Freeze Your Business
- Tips for Driving in a Winter Storm
- 10 Tips for Winter Travel
- Salting Winter Sidewalks
- Snowblower Safety: Tips to Keep You Safe When Dealing with Snow
- 9 Snow Shoveling Safety Tips
- How To Prevent Slipping on Ice This Winter
- 7 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes in an Arctic Blast
- Stay Warm While Working in the Cold
- Prevent Common Winter Losses with Early-Season Maintenance
Winter is upon us – or very close depending on your tolerance for our current weather. Although most of us like to think we’re pros at traveling in winter weather, it’s never too late for a brief reminder with some tips on how to make sure we arrive at our destination safely.
- Take a moment to open up your favorite weather app on your smartphone (or watch the news if you still have a trusty flip phone) and look at the seven-day forecast. Knowing when and where it might snow can make all the difference in arriving on time and staying out of the ditch.
- Turn your headlights on. This will help ensure other drivers see you.
Create a winter survival kit that’s always in your vehicle. Don’t forget to include a flashlight, batteries, blankets and snacks (i.e. granola bars). Have a small shovel and some sand/gravel available if you get stuck in the snow. And always carry a car charger for your cell phone.
- Take a moment to clear your vehicle prior to travel. Scrape/brush off all windows, front and rear lamps and license plates.
- Do not let your gas tank drop below a ¼ of a tank. Traffic often slows or stops in the event of an accident. You’ll need enough gas to get you to your destination.
- Make sure to fill your windshield washer reservoir. Anyone familiar with cold weather climate knows running out can be dangerous when your windshield is covered with salt and slush.
- Be careful on bridges and overpasses, where both sides of the road are exposed to cold air thus freezing over quicker than most roads.
- Know your vehicle. Know how it reacts when you brake hard or pump the brakes. Vehicles have different braking systems and you should have a comfort level prior to traveling in winter weather.
- If the weather calls for snow, let a friend or family know where and when you’re going and most importantly, what time you’ll arrive.
- Most importantly, take your time. Remember safety is always more important than arriving a few minutes earlier.
For more tips on winter preparedness, check out our Winter Defense blog series.
-Casey Flood
I agree that it is extremely important to take your time when traveling in poor winter conditions. I sometimes plan on an extra stop or two at a hotel on my way. It helps break up the trip and encourages me to go slower.
I’m happy I came across this post. I’ve just added new knowledge to the eco-friendly information I already know. Thanks for sharing!