HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
This is a very busy time of year, with holidays, work, school events, and finals for college students! For many people, this time of year is their favorite! Many people love the snow and the fun activities that go along with it. However, few of us really enjoy the way the snow impacts driving conditions.
It is exactly those cold conditions I want to talk about. There are numerous ways the cold weather, snow and ice all impact our safety. I will mention a few of them.
1) Please don’t leave your car running unattended to warm-up. This leads to a sharp increase in stolen vehicles.
2) Long stopping distances. On icy and snowy roads you will often require much more room to stop your car. Start slowing much sooner than you do when the roads are clear, or simply wet. Also, that apparently clear road might have black ice, so keep your speeds down.
3) Turning at speed when driving on ice and snow can cause your car to spin out, lose control, and leave the roadway. This is very dangerous. Again, the key is to keep your speed down. If you start to slide out of control, take your foot off the gas pedal, don’t hit the brakes, and turn your steering wheel into the turn, or in other words, in the direction you want to go.
4) Cold weather clothes can save your life! Please don’t go for a drive wearing shorts and a t-shirt. I know it’s warm in your house and in your car and in the place you want to go. If your car breaks down or something happens, you might be stranded out in the cold. You might have to walk some distance for help. Always dress for the weather and keep a coat, hat, and gloves available in your car.
5) Cold-weather comfort items can be another life-saver. Please keep a blanket, or several blankets in your car, along with a flashlight with working batteries, wools socks, and some snacks like granola bars that will stay edible for long periods of time.
6) Flares are a great addition to any roadside emergency kit! They can be used to signal oncoming traffic about hazards, and in extreme cases you can use them to start a fire, even with wet wood.
7) Tire chains or cables can be invaluable if you travel over passes, or places with deep snow. They really help you get the extra traction. If you have a blanket in your car, it can be very handy if you have to get down on the ground to install chains or cables on your tires. If you don’t know how to install chains or cables, there are instructions and videos online. You probably have friends who know how to install these chains or cables, that would be able to teach you!
The most important thing to remember, is to slow down. Give yourself extra time to get where you need to. This is wonderful time of year, and let’s not spoil it by not being prepared for the weather!
In the meantime, see to your safety. Trust your instincts! Be watchful of your surroundings. Call Crime Check at 509-456-2233, or 911 if you see suspicious or criminal behavior. In fact, in almost any situation in all of Spokane County, if you need answers or help from law enforcement, you should start by calling Crime Check at 509-456-2233. Lastly, enjoy life! This is a wonderful place to live and there are many fun activities. As always, you can reach me by emailing to dwmorris@spokanesheriff.org.
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