AAA TEXAS OFFERS TIPS FOR SAFE WINTER DRIVING
(Houston, Texas; January 4, 2010) – During
December, January, February and occasionally March, Texas from
time-to-time experiences snowy and icy driving conditions. This
week forecasters say much of the state will likely have very
cold temperatures and the possibility of snow and ice in some
parts of the state. It is important the driving public is
reminded of the challenge of driving in adverse conditions.
Keeping alert and prepared for unanticipated winter travel
hazards is the key to your driving survival. AAA Texas
encourages all motorists to be prepared for adverse conditions
as the weather turns cold.
AAA Texas recommends motorists follow the simple
guidelines below:
• Take it slow. Reducing speed and
following at a safe distance is your best strategy for
maintaining control of your car and ensuring that you have
plenty of room to stop or react to whatever happens in front of
you.
• Focus only on driving.
Distraction is always dangerous, but when you’re trying to
navigate icy streets and unpredictable situations, it can be
especially risky. Keep both hands on the wheel, turn the radio
off, stay off the phone (even if it’s hands-free), and pay
attention to your driving.
• Clear your windows, head lights, tail
lights, mirrors, roof, trunk, and hood before driving.
Windshield wipers aren’t designed to clear wet snow or ice off
your windshield and they don’t clear the entire surface.
• Plan ahead. Avoid travel during
bad conditions. If you must drive, stick to daylight hours
when visibility is better and more resources are available in
case you get stuck. Always check on weather and road conditions
before you get on the road. Charge your cell phone in advance,
in case you have to call for help.
• Get your car serviced for winter
conditions. Make sure tires have enough tread and are
properly inflated so they’ll grip on slick roads. Check
anti-freeze levels to make sure you have the right levels for
your region.
• Keep a winter emergency kit in your car.
Make sure you have flares, safety triangles,
colored cloths to tie on your antenna, and flashlights so
you can stay visible if you break down. Pack blankets and extra
warm clothes, food, and water in case you get stranded.
If you do find yourself stranded out on the road,
please heed the following advice to ensure you’re safe until
help arrives:
• Stay in your car. Stay out of the
way of other cars that may be sliding on slick roads.
• Stay warm. Keep blankets
and extra warm clothes with you to stay dry and avoid
hypothermia. Huddle with other passengers to maintain body heat.
• If you get stuck call for help on your
cell phone. Never talk on the phone while you’re
driving in bad weather.
• Run your engine and heater for a few
minutes every hour if you have enough gas. Check to make
sure the exhaust pipe isn’t blocked.
• Keep a window cracked.
Opening the windows allows for fresh air in case doors and
windows freeze.
• Set flares outside your car. Tie
bright-colored rags to your antenna so rescuers can spot you.
“A prepared driver is just as important as a
prepared vehicle,” says AAA Texas Spokesperson Sarah Schimmer.
“Getting the proper amount of rest and buckling your safety belt
before taking on winter driving tasks reduces driving risks and
helps prepare you for emergency situations.”
KPYN Radio
PO Box 900
Atlanta, TX 75551
Studio:
903-796-6056
Office: 903-796-2817
Fax: 903-796-1000
info@kpyn.net
