With winter weather approaching, the Michigan State Police Jackson Post urges residents to make safe driving a priority this winter. Here are a few tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe while operating your vehicles this season.
Severe winter weather creates hazardous road conditions with freezing / icy road surfaces. Michiganders should consider the following actions to be prepared for the winter months.
Myths / Facts:
• Myth: “The lower the temperature, the more slippery the road.”
Fact: Roads are most slippery when the thermometer hovers around freezing (32F). BLACK ICE IS DEADLY!!
• Myth: “When it starts snowing, I give myself an extra car length to stop.”
Fact: It can take up to 10 times longer to stop in snowy or icy weather. Look ahead and begin braking well in advance of an intersection.
• Myth: “Using my cruise control during the winter is no big deal.”
Fact: A sudden loss of tractions could cause your wheels to slip, making the car skid. In winter months, keep cruise control OFF!
To prepare your vehicle for winter:
• Have your radiator system serviced, replace windshield wipers and refill wiper fluid.
• Replace any worn tires and check air pressure regularly.
• Have your brakes, brake fluid, oil, car battery, heater and exhaust checked to make sure everything is running efficiently.
• Keep an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle stocked with batteries, battery powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight, windshield scraper, jumper cables, mobile phone charger, shovel, blankets, first aid kit, non-perishable food and bottled water in the event you get stranded or stuck.
Source: Press Release
