The Goderich Signal-Star, 1972-11-30, Page 17If you and your car are prepared for winter driving, you'll get
through -Safe Driving Week, December 1-7, and the entire winter
season without too much trouble. It's a matter of knowing what
to do 'in cold -weather conditions.
Have your tires, brakes, cooling system, exhaust system,' bat"
tery, windshieldh washer and wipers checked,' and repaired if .
necessary, before the snow flies. A proper tune-up is the best way
to get ready for "old man winter." "
Use a light touch on the gas when starting in snow or on icy
surfaces. Too much power will only spin the wheels and make
matters worse. Try starting in' second gear -i¢J;_Added traction.
If you do get stuck, try turning the wheels from side to side a
few times to push the snow out of the way, then steer straigh-f
ahead and ease forward very slowly. Still stuck? Shovel away as
much snow. from around the tires. Spread a little rocksalt, sand
pr.ashes tlnder the tires, 4nd if you have them, place pieces of
carpeting in front of the rear wheels. 'Now gently rock the car
back and forth, shifting front forward to reverse (If your car has
`automatic transmission, check the owner's manual for the proper
procedure for -rocking). With each rock, you should gain a little
ground. However, tire chains are still the best answer for getting
out of such situations.
When driving on ice or snow, remember that it takes a mucic
greater distance to bring your car to a halt than it does on dry
pavement. Always leave more room between you and other
clyiyAlt in winter. Reducing Your speed not only increases your
chances of stopping in time, it also helps reduce the possibility of
skids.
Don't slam .on the brakes. You'll lock the wheels and this
could result in an uncontrolled skid. Purnp your brakesgently so
that you can maintain steering control.
If you do start to skid, don't panic. and don't slam on the
brakes. Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, take your foot off
the accelerator and steer in the direction the rear of the vehicle is
skidding. Be careful that you don't over compensate. When you
feel the car regaining traction, straighten your wheels and be
prepared 'to handle a skid in the opposite direction.
Keep your windows clear. Not just the windshield, but side and
rear windows as well. Use your , windshield washers, and if
driving at night, stop occasionally and clean off headlights and
taillights. You can't drive safely if you can't see and be seen,-
When
eemWhen driving through fog or heavy snowfall, use your low
beams."'Iiigh beams reflect light off the fog or falling snow and
can be blinding for a driver. If the visibility gets too bad, don't be
a hero, pull well off the road with your emergency flashers on
and wait until the fog or snowfall lets up.
Be a defensive driver. "Know the hazards, understand the
defence and act in time" during Safe Driving Week, during the
- winter driving season, and throughout the year.
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