On thin ice: A guide to winter driving

Published March 5, 2013
By Tech. Sgt. Wade Woods
21st Space Wing Safety Office

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is not to drive at all, if you can avoid it. When you must drive, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Safe winter driving starts before you even leave the driveway. Tell someone when you depart, your intended route of travel, destination and expected arrival time. A cell phone can be a great way to communicate distress, but should never take the place of pre-departure communication.

Next, make sure your vehicle is operating properly. Now is an excellent time to have a competent mechanic give it a thorough look. Also, consult your owner's manual for guidance specific to your vehicle's handling characteristics.

Don't go out until the snow plows and salt/sand trucks have had a chance to do their work, and allow yourself extra time to reach your destination. Here are some tips provided by the National Safety Council, New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, and Washington State Government Information & Services:

Driving safely on icy roads
1. Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
2. Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
3. Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
4. Keep your lights and windshield clean.
5. Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
6. Don't use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
7. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
8. Don't pass snow plows and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you're likely to find the road in front of them much worse than the road behind.
9. Don't assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.

If you become stranded
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. To protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia use the woolen items and blankets to keep warm.
5. Keep at least one window open slightly. Heavy snow and ice can seal a car shut.

Think ahead, be cautious and situationally aware so you make it to your destination and back safely!