Prepare to travel safe this winter
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EmailKnow what to do when winter weather heads your way.
The importance of being prepared for an emergency hit home last winter when we lost power during a storm. Instead of cooking supper as I planned to do, I was forced to wonder what we would eat without the use of the stove. This event made me realize how unprepared I am to live (even for a short period of time) without lights, water and heat, and it motivated me to create an emergency plan for my home. As the snow started piling up this season, I took this as a sign for me to prepare for an emergency when I am traveling in my car. We can’t be ready to address all situations, but we can prepare for common ones. The following steps were taken from these organization’s websites: Red Cross, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Department of Homeland Security.
Before traveling
- Stay up-to-date on weather conditions and travel advisories issued by the National Weather Service.
- Tell someone where you are going and what route you will travel. Stay on main roads.
- Keep emergency contact information in wallet, purse or phone as well as an updated medication list. Carry additional medications with you if feasible.
- Keep gas tank full to prevent the fuel line from freezing.
- Maintain car in good working order by routinely checking brakes, exhaust system, air filter and lights. Check and refill fluid and oil levels. Replace tires and install snow tires when needed.
- Stock emergency supplies in your car, such as a flashlight, jumper cables, tow rope, shovel, map, sand/cat litter, and snacks that store well. Carry additional warm clothing and blankets. Include water and high-protein snacks.
- Remember to slow down and allow extra time to stop.
In case of an emergency
- Brake gently if your car goes into a skid. The Secretary of State advises you not to spin your tires if you get stuck. You can try rocking the car by accelerating when in drive and then reverse.
- Report your location to emergency responders.
- Limit phone use to save battery power.
- Stay in your car unless a building is nearby where you can take shelter.
- Tie a colored ribbon from the antenna or window if you get stuck or must pull off the road.
- Keep the car running if help is near. Open a downwind window slightly and keep exhaust pipe clear to prevent carbon monoxide poisioning. If help is not near, run the car only 10 minutes per hour.
- Use lights and radio when car is running to prevent battery from losing power.
- Huddle with other passengers and use maps, newspapers, floormats, etc. for insulation.
- Stay hydrated but avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks.
When you prepare for winter weather travel, you can be confident that you have done all you can to keep yourself and your passengers safe.
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