Prepare Winter Driving

By Simon
General
With winter right around the corner, it is important for all drivers, new and veteran, to be prepared for winter driving conditions. When you attend driving classes NYC , you’ll learn about the importance of safe winter driving, and what you can do to prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter road conditions. As winter road conditions develop, it is important to be prepared even if you are going on a short drive. Even though you might not expect it, you could end up being stranded for hours at a time, due to your location or the severity of the storm preventing help from getting to you. There are some things that you can do before you head out this winter to ensure that you are prepared in case the worst happens. Cold temperatures are hard on vehicles, which is why it is important to check your vehicle over to ensure that it is prepared and well maintained prior to winter’s arrival. Some items to check before the first snow include:
  • Battery strength
  • Tire pressure and tread left
  • Spare tire and jack
  • Antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid levels
In the event that you get stranded it is important to be prepared. You should have emergency supplies in your vehicle at all times. Such items include jumper cables, necessary tools to change a tire, first-aid kit, and a flashlight. In addition, it is a good idea to carry the suggested winter essentials:
  • Basic tool kit
  • Warning flares
  • Antifreeze and windshield washer fluid
  • Tow and tire chains
  • Bag or road salt
  • Small folding shovel
It is also recommended to be prepared in case you ended up stranded in your vehicle. When this happens, you’ll want to be prepared by having a personalized survival kit with you. Items to include in your survival kit should include:
  • Ice scraper and brush
  • Drinking water
  • Wooden matches
  • Cell phone charger
  • Blankets and warm clothing
  • High-energy, non-perishable food
Not only is it recommended to have your vehicle well-stocked and prepared in the event that you get stranded, but it is also important to know what to do yourself! Below are a few tips to keep in mind to protect yourself and help you to remain calm until help arrives.
  • Pull off to the side of the road if possible, turn on hazards, or signal for help
  • If you have a phone with reception, call for help and describe your exact location as precisely as possible
  • Remain in your vehicle
  • Drink fluids to remain hydrated
  • Conserve your vehicle’s battery by using lights, radio, and heat sparingly
  • Turn your car on for 10 minutes every hour to keep warm. When doing this crack a downwind window for ventilation, and make sure that snow is cleared away from exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
  • If possible, exercise a little in your vehicle to maintain your body heat
If you are prepared, and heed the advice of veteran drivers, driving classes NYC, and emergency professionals, you’ll be better prepared to drive in winter driving conditions. If you are looking for driving classes in NYC that can help to prepare you for the winter driving months ahead, contact Drive Rite Academy and schedule a class today!
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