The number one way to stay safe on the roads during winter weather is to stay home and allow crews to clear snow and ice from the streets. But, if you must venture out remember these five tips.
1. Slow down
Be aware of the road conditions and slow down when roads are wet, snowy or icy.
2. Look and steer
If you feel your car slipping look and steer in the direction you want the car to go.
3. Stomp and stay
If you have anti-lock brakes step on the brake pedal as hard as you can, when you hear or feel the brakes pulsing then slowly let up on the pedal until you have steered clear of the object you are trying to avoid. Do not pump the brakes.
4. Roads that look slick are
If the temperatures are freezing and you see a wet road chances are that there is black ice on the roadway.
5. Don’t assume your car can handle the roads
Four-wheel drive will not help on icy roads, and does not allow your car to drive normally in snowy conditions.
Before winter weather strikes, make sure to prepare your car. Put together a winter car safety kit that includes blankets, a shovel, ice scraper, flares, a cell phone charger, a flashlight, and abrasive material, such as sand or kitty litter, in case your car gets stuck in the snow.
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