Elisa Babel, MLS
With winter soon to be upon us, I’m reposting the driving tips (with a few additions) from my post in February 2010. A winter wonderland is fun to imagine but not so much if you have to drive in it.
♦ Check your local jurisdiction about street parking during snow emergencies.
♦ If you take public transportation, check on service operations when snow is forecasted.
♦ If you have garage parking at your library or at a public garage, park there on days that snow is forecasted. It will help to keep you and your car clean and dry.
♦ If you are parking outside, invest in a car cover from an auto store and use it when snow is forecasted. Scraping ice off your windshield is no fun.
♦ Got that windshield scraper? Full gas tank? Fully charged cell phone? Emergency numbers if you get stuck?
♦ Tune into your favorite news station (TV or radio) for traffic reports and updates–conditions can change without warning.
♦ If you’ve got a back windshield wiper, use it! While driving, snowflakes can accumulate on the back windshield too.
♦ Be aware of “disappearing” lanes and odd traffic patterns.
♦ Keep your distance behind road treatment trucks and other equipment. They don’t go very fast!
♦ Turn on your headlights! Daytime headlights won’t cut it.
♦ Stick to the main roads. Your favorite back road or short cut may be too dangerous to travel during a snowstorm.
♦ If your library closes early for snow and/or it’s snowing when you leave, take something to drink and a small snack in your car. You could be in for a longer drive home than usual. Same goes for public transportation.
♦ Take your time driving. You will be going slower than posted speed limits.
♦ Once you’re safely home, don’t go out unless it’s necessary!
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