According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), accidents on the roads are the number one cause of death during winter storms. Staying safe is as simple as being prepared and knowing how to react.
BEFORE
Have a mechanic check the following on your car:
Battery, antifreeze, wipers and windshield washer fluid, ignition system, thermostat, lights, flashing hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes, defroster and oil level (if necessary, replace existing oil with a winter grade oil or the SAE 10w/30 weight variety).
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Remember...
- Tires are important. Make sure they have adequate tread. All-weather radials are sufficient for most winter conditions.
- Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season.
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Pay attention to the latest road conditions by listening to the radio, watching TV, or using the Internet. Travel by daylight and take at least one other person, if possible.
- 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.
Keep these items in your car:
Flashlights with extra batteries, first aid kit with pocket knife, necessary medications, several blankets, sleeping bags, extra newspapers for insulation, plastic bags (for sanitation), matches, extra set of mittens, socks, and a wool cap, rain gear and extra clothes, small sack of sand for generating traction under wheels, small shovel, ice scraper, small tools (pliers, wrench, screwdriver), booster cables, set of tire chains or traction mats, cards, games, and puzzles, brightly colored cloth to use as a flag, canned fruit and nuts, manual can opener, bottled water.
DURING
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If you're trapped in your car during a blizzard...
- Stay inside the car.
- Only leave the car if help is visible within 100 yards. You may become disoriented and lost is blowing and drifting snow.
- Display a trouble sign by hanging a brightly colored cloth on the radio antenna and raising the hood.
- Occasionally run engine to keep warm. Turn on the car's engine for about 10 minutes each hour. Run the heater when the car is running. Also, 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.
- Do minor exercises to keep up circulation.
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