Winter Road Safety Tips

Driving in winter weather can be slow and frustrating, but slippery roads, blowing snow and freezing temperatures make road travel dangerous as well. Preferred Care is concerned about your safety. Before you brush off your car and get on the road, take a look at our tips for preventing winter road emergencies and what to do in case your car becomes stuck or breaks down, so you can "weather" through it safely.

Take a few easy precautions to prepare for winter road travel.

• Assemble an emergency kit for your car that includes:
  • Flashlight
• Blanket
• First-aid kit
• A brightly colored signal cloth (preferably red or orange), such as a bandana
• Extra warm clothing for yourself, and children or older adults who travel with you
• Bottled water
• Nonperishable food items, such as granola bars
• Carry a cellular phone in case of emergencies.
• Keep your car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Brush the snow off of headlights and taillights before you start to drive, so that your car is easily visible to other drivers.
• Stay on main roads and highways as much as possible.
• Let someone know where you're going, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your route.
• Avoid unnecessary travel during a winter storm.
• Always wear your seatbelt!

If your car becomes stuck or breaks down, safety is your first concern.

• Move your vehicle off the road and safely away from traffic if possible.
• Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety. Keep doors locked.
• Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red or orange) to the antenna, door handle or mirror. Unless high winds are a factor, also raise your vehicle's hood for rescuers to see.
• Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Make sure that the exhaust pipe is not blocked with snow, so fumes won't back up in the car.
• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.
• As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
• Keep one window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.

Information Sources:

• The Driving Safety section of the American Auto Association (AAA) of  Western and Central New York's Web site
• American Red Cross Greater Rochester Chapter www.RochesterRedCross.org

Last updated: January 17, 2006