Road Safety Tips for Winter Travels
One of the things that could ruin a winter vacation is a road accident. With the roads slippery and visibility poor, you will certainly need to be very careful. In order to reduce the risk of an accident, here are some precautions that you should consider.
Before Heading Out
If you are on the road and driving, make sure you:
- Check your tires including your spare tire and fuel gauge.
- Secure yourself and your passengers with seatbelts.
- Plan the route you will be taking to avoid getting confused.
- Wear warm clothing to help you concentrate on your driving.
- Pack emergency items like water, blanket, flashlights, first-aid kit and candles.
- Fully-charge your cellular phone.
- Inform a friend or relative where you are heading especially if you are traveling alone.
While Driving
Being prepared for the travel ahead is just the beginning, you should ensure safety by:
- Avoiding speeding and braking suddenly.
- Slowing down when approaching intersections and school zones.
- Turning on lights to see the road more properly.
- Using light signals when turning and make sure that you do not suddenly turn.
If Your Car Breaks Down
Even after all the safety precautions, there are still instances when you will encounter some problems. Here are some of the things you should do:
- Signal distress by tying a cloth, preferably brightly-coloured on the antennae and putting out the early warning device.
- Keep the motor running in order to avoid freezing.
- Make sure that the exhaust pipe is free from any clogs.
- Do not try to push the vehicle yourself especially if it is stuck in snow.
- Increase blood circulation by moving legs and arms rapidly.
- Do deep breathing exercises. For fresh air, open your window slightly.
- Wait patiently for assistance.
