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Patty Craig; A Slice Of Times

In Kentucky, January and February tend to be our coldest months with some chance of snow or ice. One thing many people dread about winter is, when necessary, having to drive in hazardous conditions. Recently, I found some advice regarding winter driving, items for the winter vehicle, and parking lot safety.

First, I appreciate tips that might help me be a better driver. The AAA Traveler (January 2021, page 16) included an article entitled “Myths Abound Regarding Winter-Driving Advice.” This article provided the following driving advice:

-If conditions become too hazardous, stay home.

-Tire pressure should be set to what the car manufacturer recommends. Deflating the tires does more damage than good.

-If the car begins sliding on ice, don’t hit the brakes. Ease off the gas and direct the wheels to match the direction in which the rear of the vehicle is sliding.

-Clear snow or ice from windows, roof, hood, and trunk. Otherwise, flying ice or snow can land on another person’s windshield, causing an accident.

-Vehicles should be washed every couple of weeks if the weather permits. Road salt or caked-on sand that’s been used on roads can cause damage to a vehicle’s body.

In retrospect, I haven’t always done each of these things; but in the future, I will be more aware.

Second, the Firestone Blog (https://blog.firestonecompleteautocare.com/driving/10-things-you-must-ca...) listed ten items to carry in a vehicle during the winter. 

1.Portable phone charger/battery (preferably a portable battery)

2.Ice scraper

3.Shovel

4.Bag of sand or kitty litter

5.Hazard triangles or LED flashers

6.Flashlight

7.Blankets and extra cold-weather clothes

8.Snacks and water

9.First aid kit

10.Jumper cables

When the weather is snowy, icy, and unpredictable, keeping emergency supplies in the vehicle is important. Planning ahead could make a bad day better.

Third, “Parking Lot Safety” was an article published on the Family Safety & Health website (https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/20516-parking-lot-safety). This article presented common-sense safety tips:

-Park in a highly visible and well-lit area. Use main building entrances, avoiding rear or secluded exits.

-Always be alert to your surroundings. Keep your head up and look around. If you have to walk alone, don’t wear headphones or talk on the phone.

-If you have to walk alone, have someone watch you from a window, a door, etc. Even if no one is watching you, wave to give the illusion that someone is watching as you return to your vehicle.

-Have your keys out and ready as you approach your vehicle. Then lock the doors and keep the windows rolled up once you’re in the vehicle.

Unfortunately, parking lots are sites for theft, accidents and kidnappings. So, being cautious is necessary.

 

I read a slogan that said, “The best drivers are aware that they must beware.” Drivers should be aware of advice regarding winter driving, items for the winter vehicle, and parking lot safety. After all, “chance takers are accident makers,” and we want you safe.

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