SNOW GOING
Winter Travel Tips from Alkane Truck Company
Snow, ice and cold temperatures present unique challenges to drivers of all skill levels and vehicles of all sizes. Of course, you want to keep your speed in check with extra distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you; but aside from the dangers of a collision, you don’t want to find yourself stranded on the roadside.
Here are some recommendations from Alkane Truck Company to consider before leaving on your trip.
Is Your Vehicle Ready?
Battery and Charging System — Because efficiency of a vehicle battery decreases in colder weather, a fully charged battery in good condition (newer than 3 years) is required to start an engine as the temperature drops. Have your battery tested and replaced if it’s weak. Check the condition of the battery cables and terminals to be sure all connections are secure and corrosion is removed from the terminals and posts.
Don’t forget the Alternator belt. A loose belt can lead to a dead battery. Be sure your belt is properly adjusted and look for signs of wear (cracks).
Antifreeze — Antifreeze protection is the first item that comes to mind when we think of winter vehicle maintenance. A 50:50 solution of engine coolant:water will provide the necessary antifreeze capability — but only if it stays in the system. Inspect hoses and clamps for leaks or cracks and be sure the clamps are tight. Check the hoses to be sure they aren’t either brittle or spongy — both signs of age and wear. Don’t take a chance if you find a problem. Replace. Vehicle manufacturers recommend flushing the cooling system every two to five years; check your owner’s manual for your manufacturer’s recommendation.
*Remember that antifreeze — even in a small amounts — is deadly for small children and pets. Keep it safely stored away and clean up any leaks immediately.
Washer Fluid — Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with a cleaning solution that has antifreeze components for cold weather use. Every year someone does this, so: do not confuse the washer fluid reservoir with the antifreeze reservoir.
Top off all fluids: Transmission, Brakes, Power Steering.
Wiper Blades — Blades should completely clear the glass with each swipe. Replace blades that leave streaks or miss spots. In areas with snowy conditions, consider installing winter wiper blades that wrap the blade in a rubber boot to prevent ice and snow buildup that can prevent good contact between the blade and the glass.
Tire Type and Tread — In areas with severe winter weather, changing to snow tires on all four wheels will provide the best winter traction. All-season tires will work well in light to moderate snow conditions, providing they have adequate tread depth. If any tire has less than 3/32-inches of tread, it should be replaced.
Tire Pressure — Check tire pressure more frequently during the winter. As the temperature drops, so will the pressure in the tires — typically 1 PSI for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The proper tire pressure levels can be found on a sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb. And, don’t forget to check the spare.
Lights — Check the operation of all headlights, taillights, emergency flashers, turn signals, brake lights and back-up lights. Replace any burnt out bulbs.
Brakes — Have brakes inspected by a certified technician to ensure all components are in good working order. Any brake issues you may have noticed in the summer will become worse in the winter when traction is reduced. Don’t take chances.
The Vehicle is Ready. Are You?
Take this readiness quiz to see how much you know: http://travl.rs/1NaLi32
Watch the Weather
Monitor road and weather conditions by checking local news stations and internet weather sites along your intended route of travel. Make your ‘go/no go’ decision with as much information as you can.
Tips for Driving in the Snow
· Clear your vehicle of any snow and ice — including windows, mirrors, lights, reflectors, hood, roof and trunk.
· Drive with headlights ON
· Accelerate and decelerate slowly
· Watch your speed; drive slowly
· Increase following distance from 3–4 seconds to 8–10
· Know your brakes: stomp on antilock brakes; pump non-antilock brakes
· Don’t power up hills
· Don’t stop on a hill
· Don’t stop if you can avoid it
· Stopping distances are longer on ice or water-covered ice
· Don’t idle for a long time in an enclosed space or with windows up
· Keep your eyes open for pedestrians
· Get plenty of rest before a trip
· Stop every three hours & rotate drivers, if possible
Emergency Road Kit — Update the car’s emergency kit for winter weather. The kit should include:
· Bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, cat litter) or traction mats
· Snow shovel
· Snow brush
· Flashlight with extra batteries
· Window washer solvent
· Ice scraper
· Cloth or roll of paper towels
· Jumper cables
· Gloves, hats and blankets
· Warning devices (flares or triangles)
· Drinking water
· Non-perishable snacks (energy or granola bars)
· Extra clothes
· Blanket(s) or sleeping bag(s)
· First-aid kit
· Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
· Mobile phone and car charger with important numbers programmed in it, including a roadside assistance provider
Happy holidays and drive safely, Friends.
Our thanks to AAA, NHTSA, OSHA and Travelers Insurance Company for their contributions to these valuable safety tips.
Alkane Truck Company is currently raising capital on the crowdfunding platform StartEngine. Find out more here: https://www.startengine.com/startup/alkane
