|
WINTER WEATHER DRIVING |
The leading cause of death during winter storms is transportation accidents. Preparing your vehicle for the winter season and knowing how to react if stranded or lost on the road are the keys to safe winter driving.
Have a mechanic check the following items on your car:
Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.
Keep a windshield scraper and a small broom for ice and snow removal in your car.
Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season.
Plan long trips carefully. Listen to the radio or call the state highway patrol for the latest road conditions. Always travel during daylight and, if possible, take at least one other person.
If you must go out during a winter storm, use public transportation.
Dress warmly. Wear Layers of loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing.
Carry food and water. Store a supply of high energy "munchies" and several bottles of water.
Keep these items in your car:
Stay in the car.
Do not leave the car to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards. You may become disoriented and lost in the blowing and drifting snow.
Display a brightly colored cloth on the radio antenna and raise the car hood.
Occasionally run the engine for about ten minutes to keep warm.
Run the heater when the car is running.
Turn on the car's dome light when the car is running.
Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow and open a downwind window slightly for ventilation.
Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
Exercise lightly by clapping hands and moving arms and legs occasionally. Avoid staying in one position too long.
Huddle together.
Use newspapers, maps, and even the removable car mats for added insulation.
Avoid over exertion. Cold weather puts an added strain on the heart. Unaccustomed exercise such as shoveling snow or pushing a car can bring on a heart attack or make other medical conditions worse.
Be aware of symptoms of dehydration.
Contact Sarpy County Emergency Management Agency (402-593-5785) or the Heartland Chapter of the American Red Cross (402-343-7711) for more information on winter storms.
Return to the Sarpy County Emergency Management Agency Page
Revised November 13, 1998
