Be Prepared to Drive Home Safe in Inclement Weather

We have had it lucky with the unusually warm weather this season, however, it’s coming.

Snow and ice.  They are harmless words but when pertaining to driving- they can be very dangerous.

“No one wants to be stranded in the cold because of an accident or vehicle breakdown, properly preparing your vehicle for winter driving is essential for the safety of all passengers and will greatly decrease the chances of your vehicle breaking down”, states Fire Chief Jon Mead.  Chief Mead recommends all drivers to prepare themselves with a winter emergency preparedness kit in case of a vehicle breakdown. 

The kit should include some of the following:

• A flashlight with extra batteries
• Jumper cables
• Flares and/or a reflective triangle
• First Aid Supplies
• A simple tool kit
• A fully charged cell phone and/or a cell phone charger
• Candles
• Matches and/or a lighter
• Blanket
• Kitty litter, salt, or sand
• Ice scraper with a brush
• Gloves
• Antifreeze
• Extra warm clothing
• Drinking water
• Snacks such as a can of nuts, dried fruit and hard candy.
• Make sure your car jack and lug wrench is in your car and operating properly

Before the weather of Old Man Winter arrives, make sure your car is properly serviced and maintained.

• Checking the ignition, brakes, wiring, hoses and fan belts.
• Changing and adjusting the spark plugs.
• Checking the air, fuel and emission filters, and the PCV valve.
• Inspecting the distributor.
• Checking the battery.
• Checking the tires for air, sidewall wear and tread depth.
• Checking antifreeze levels and the freeze line

Drive slow, it's better to be late than never arrive!