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By Marty Johnson
The time to prepare for the deep snows and arctic blasts of winter
is when the weather is still mild, according to AAA National. A bit of
prevention can help prevent potentially hazardous breakdowns.
Winter weather is hard on vehicles and motorists,and roadside
breakdowns in winter can quickly turn into dangerous situation, Advance
preparation, however, can pave the way to safe, comfortable winter
driving.
The best strategy to combat severe winter weather is to make sure
your car's battery is in proper working order.
Motorists should take the following precautions before setting out
this winter:
 | Have your vehicle thoroughly inspected by a certified technician.
The engine oil, radiator, tires, battery and ignition system must be
in top condition to perform properly in cold weather. Windshield
wipers, brakes, tires and exterior lights should be checked. |
| Prepare a winter survival kit. Suggested items include a
flashlight, blankets, booster cables, warning device (flares or
reflective triangles), small bag of abrasive material (sand or cat
litter), warm clothing, paper towels, and a small shovel. |
| Try to keep your fuel tank at least half full. |
For motorists who become snowbound in harsh weather, the following
tips are recommended:
| Stay with your vehicle. It provides excellent temporary
shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. Don't try to walk in a blizzard.
It is easy to lose sight of your vehicle in blowing snow and become lost.
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| Don't overexert yourself in cold weather by trying to push a
vehicle or dig it out of the snow. Overexertion is particularly dangerous in low
temperatures. |
| Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or place the
cloth in a rolled up window to signal distress. Keep the dome light on at night, if
possible. The dome light uses only a small amount of current from the battery and makes it
easier for rescuers to see the vehicle. |
| Make certain the exhaust pipe is not clogged with snow.
Blockage can cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment when
the engine is running. |
| For fresh air, open a window slightly on the side away from
the wind and be sure snow or frost does not block ventilation. |
| Use whatever is available to insulate your body, including
floor mats, maps or newspapers. |
| If possible, run the engine and heater just long enough to
remove the chill and conserve gasoline. Occasional deep breathing and rapidly moving arms
and legs can increase body circulation. |
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