Winterize Your Car
The attorneys at The Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, LLC want you to remember that driving in the winter means snow, sleet and ice which can cause traffic to move slower, hazardous road conditions, hot tempers and unforeseen dangers. To help you make it safely through winter, here are some suggestions we got from the National Safety Council to make sure that you and your vehicle are prepared.
Weather
Before heading out, always check the weather. Any temperature 20° Fahrenheit below zero or 90° Fahrenheit above effects roads and driving conditions.
Your Car
Prepare your car for winter. Start with a checkup that includes:
- 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.
Necessary Equipment to have in your car
An emergency situation on the road can arise at any time and you must be prepared. In addition to making sure you have the tune-up, a full tank of gas, and fresh anti-freeze, you should carry the following items in your trunk:
- Properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench, and tripod-type jack
- Shovel
- Jumper cables
- Tow and tire chains
- Bag of salt or cat litter
- Toolkit
- Working flashlight and extra batteries
- Reflective triangles and brightly-colored cloth
- Compass
- First aid kit
- Exterior windshield cleaner
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Wooden stick matches in a waterproof container
- Scissors and string/cord
- Non-perishable, high-energy foods like unsalted canned nuts, dried fruits, and hard candy
- heavy woolen mittens
- socks
- a cap
- blankets.
If You Become Stranded…
- Do not leave your car unless you know exactly where you are, how far it is to possible help, and are certain you will improve your situation.
- To attract attention, light two flares and place one at each end of the car a safe distance away.
Hang a brightly colored cloth from your antenna.
- If you are sure the car’s exhaust pipe is not blocked, run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour or so depending upon the amount of gas in the tank.
- To protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia use the woolen items and blankets to keep warm.
- Keep at least one window open slightly.
Heavy snow and ice can seal a car shut.
- Eat a hard candy to keep your mouth moist.
