Winter Driving Safety Tips
As the frosty temperatures settle upon our community, the men and women of the Maryland Heights Police Department would like to remind everyone how important it is to drive safely and responsibly during challenging road conditions. Winter brings a unique set of hazardous driving conditions. But by using the right precautions, you can ensure
safe travels.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Before hazardous weather strikes, make sure that your vehicle is winter-ready. Check your tires for proper inflation and adequate tread depth. Top off your antifreeze, test your battery, and always keep your gas tank at least half full. This will not only prevent the fuel line from freezing up in cold temperatures, but it will also ensure you can stay warm if you happen to get stuck on the side of the road.
Practice Defensive Driving
Winter roads can be unpredictable, so adopting defensive driving is essential in staying safe. There are many simple ways to practice defensive driving: maintaining a safe distance between the car in front of you just in case you need that extra distance to stop; being extra cautious on turns, ramps, and bridges as these areas tend to freeze much faster than other parts of the road; and avoid sudden braking or acceleration—which can lead to losing control of your car.
Stay Alert and Focused
Driving requires undivided attention and this certainly becomes even more critical during a winter storm. Eliminate all distractions by keeping your phone safely stashed away so you can focus on the road. Monitor weather reports before heading to your destination and plan your route accordingly. Turn your headlights on for better visibility (even during the day).
Slow Down and Plan Ahead
Reduced grip from your vehicle's tires and slippery surfaces demand slower speeds. Allow yourself extra time to reach your destination. Plan for potential delays caused by road conditions. Give yourself plenty of time to react to unexpected situations and to go slow and steady.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Despite all your precautions, emergencies can still occur. Equip your vehicle with a winter emergency kit that contains essentials such as: flashlights, extra warm clothing, blankets, a shovel, an ice scraper, and a container of sand or kitty litter to be used for traction. If you are involved in an accident or breakdown, call for assistance and stay safely inside your vehicle while you wait for help.
Continue to Practice General Road Safety
Make sure seatbelts are being used for you and all your passengers and that young children are in their properly sized child seats. Continue to abide by all traffic rules—stop signs, speed limits, and traffic lights.
We urge you to keep these precautions in mind when dealing with winter weather this season. Together, we can ensure a safer driving season.
safe travels.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Before hazardous weather strikes, make sure that your vehicle is winter-ready. Check your tires for proper inflation and adequate tread depth. Top off your antifreeze, test your battery, and always keep your gas tank at least half full. This will not only prevent the fuel line from freezing up in cold temperatures, but it will also ensure you can stay warm if you happen to get stuck on the side of the road.
Practice Defensive Driving
Winter roads can be unpredictable, so adopting defensive driving is essential in staying safe. There are many simple ways to practice defensive driving: maintaining a safe distance between the car in front of you just in case you need that extra distance to stop; being extra cautious on turns, ramps, and bridges as these areas tend to freeze much faster than other parts of the road; and avoid sudden braking or acceleration—which can lead to losing control of your car.
Stay Alert and Focused
Driving requires undivided attention and this certainly becomes even more critical during a winter storm. Eliminate all distractions by keeping your phone safely stashed away so you can focus on the road. Monitor weather reports before heading to your destination and plan your route accordingly. Turn your headlights on for better visibility (even during the day).
Slow Down and Plan Ahead
Reduced grip from your vehicle's tires and slippery surfaces demand slower speeds. Allow yourself extra time to reach your destination. Plan for potential delays caused by road conditions. Give yourself plenty of time to react to unexpected situations and to go slow and steady.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Despite all your precautions, emergencies can still occur. Equip your vehicle with a winter emergency kit that contains essentials such as: flashlights, extra warm clothing, blankets, a shovel, an ice scraper, and a container of sand or kitty litter to be used for traction. If you are involved in an accident or breakdown, call for assistance and stay safely inside your vehicle while you wait for help.
Continue to Practice General Road Safety
Make sure seatbelts are being used for you and all your passengers and that young children are in their properly sized child seats. Continue to abide by all traffic rules—stop signs, speed limits, and traffic lights.
We urge you to keep these precautions in mind when dealing with winter weather this season. Together, we can ensure a safer driving season.