While you should try to limit your outdoor exposure as much as possible during winter storms, sometimes it is unavoidable. Here are some tips to stay safe if you must travel.
Stay informed and in communication
Listen for radio or television reports of travel advisories issued by the National Weather Service. Avoid travel if at all possible during warnings, advisories and storms.
If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
Check and restock the winter emergency supplies in your car before you leave.
Always carry extra warm clothing and blankets with you. Don’t rely on a car to provide enough heat in the event of a breakdown.
Never pour water on your windshield to remove ice or snow; doing so can cause your windshield to shatter.
Drive with extreme care
Do not travel in low visibility conditions.
If travel by car is necessary, take a fully charged mobile phone with you. Use tire chains if possible.
Maintain extra distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you to slow down if needed.
Drive slowly and smoothly. Increasing speed, braking and turning should all be deliberate, gentle and gradual.
Look further ahead down the road and watch for vehicle brake and emergency lights. Give yourself time to react and reduce speed slowly.
Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads, overpasses and bridges if possible.
Recovering from a skid
When your vehicle encounters a slick spot, it may begin to slide away. You can bring the car back under full control by avoiding your breaks and doing the following:
For a front-wheel skid. When the front tires lose grip and the car turns in a wider arc than you expect, ease off the gas. The front tires should regain traction quickly. Then, aim the steering wheel in the direction you want to continue.
For a rear-wheel skid. When the rear tires lose traction and the car feels like it’s beginning to spin, quickly turn the steering wheel in the same direction that the rear is sliding. Ease off the accelerator and do not apply pressure to the brakes. As the rear wheels regain traction, steer back in the original direction.
If you get stranded
Staying in your car when stranded is often the safest choice if winter storms create poor visibility or roadways are ice-covered. These steps will increase your safety when stranded:
Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna as a signal to rescuers. Raise the hood of the car if it is not snowing.
Move anything you need from the trunk into the passenger area.
Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing, blankets or towels.
Stay awake. You will be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems.
Run the motor (and heater) for no more than 10 minutes per hour, opening one window slightly to let in air. Ensure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe; doing so will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Keep moving your arms and legs as you sit to improve your circulation and stay warmer.
Do not eat snow because it will lower your body temperature.
Huddle with other people for warmth.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
