Winter driving tips, items to keep in your car for emergencies

  • Published
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Winter has arrived and snow is on the way. Gunfighters are reminded to be aware of road conditions and be prepared for emergencies to ensure they arrive safely at their destinations.

The following are some helpful tips to keep in mind while driving during the winter months:
Stay alert, slow down and stay in control: Three key elements to safe winter driving. Drive according to current road and weather conditions. Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Avoid situations where you may have to brake suddenly on a slippery surface.
The condition of your vehicle's tires: Worn and damaged tires can hamper your ability to drive safely. Have them checked or replaced before winter begins. Remember to check tire air pressure frequently, as it decreases in colder weather.
Utilize the four second rule: It takes longer to stop on a slippery road and it's important to leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle ahead. A guide to safe spacing under normal driving conditions is the two-second rule. In winter, and especially during poor weather conditions, double the two-second rule.
Follow the road conditions: Review the internet, radio and local television weather channels for local condition updates.
Snow removal on base versus off base: On base snow removal is accomplished much quicker than off base. So while traveling off base, ensure to reduce the speed of the vehicle. Keep in mind, the posted speed limit was established for ideal driving conditions. During inclement weather, reduce your speed and don't drive faster than the conditions allow. An extra two minutes can be the defining difference in arriving to your destination safely.

Motorists can prepare for safer winter travel by keeping a simple emergency kit on hand. The Idaho Transportation Department advises drivers to carry some helpful items in the car in case of an emergency:
· Flashlights with extra batteries
· Stocked first aid kit
· Pocketknife
· Blanket or sleeping bag
· Mittens, socks and a wool cap
· Waterproof covering like a tarp or a poncho
· Three-pound coffee can, which can be used to heat water
· A small sack of sand or cat litter for generating traction under stuck wheels; it also adds weight to the vehicle
· A small shovel
· Bottled water (but remember it will probably freeze so allow expansion room in the container)
· Booster cables
· Energy bars or other high-energy food like raisins or nuts
· Waterproof matches or a cigarette lighter
· Candles (a blanket over a person's head, body heat and the heat from a single candle can prevent freezing)
· Basic tool kit to include pliers, screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, tape and wire
· Paper towels or toilet tissue, good for their designed purpose as well as a fire starter
· Spare tire
· Rope and wire, tow chain or a strap
· Starter fluid, extra oil, gas line de-icer and battery booster cables
· Map of the travel location area
· Signaling devices such as emergency flares or a mirror

Having these items on hand can help ensure a driver's safety, but vehicles also need attention at the start of the winter season. The American Automobile Association advises drivers to prepare their vehicles for the winter season by having a mechanic check the following items:
· Battery
· Antifreeze level
· Wipers and windshield washer fluid
· Ignition system
· Thermostat
· Headlights and hazard lights
· Exhaust system
· Defroster and heater
· Brakes
· Oil level (if necessary, replace existing oil with a winter grade oil or the SAE 10w/30 viscosity)
· Winter tires
Basic automobile parts can help save a stranded motorist. Put these automotive parts to good use:
· A hubcap or sun visor can be substituted for a shovel.
· Seat covers can be used as a blanket.
· Floor mats can be used to shut out the wind.
· Engine oil burned in a hubcap creates a smoke signal visible for miles.
· A car horn can be heard as far as a mile downwind. Three long blasts, ten seconds apart, every 30 minutes, is a standard distress signal.
· A rear-view mirror can be removed to serve as a signaling device.
· Burn a tire for a signal or for warmth. Release the air pressure and use gasoline or oil for a means to ignite it.
· Before beginning a trip or long drive, motorists can dial 511 or visit 511.idaho.gov on the Web for updates on winter road and weather conditions, emergency closures and access to tourist information.