Preparation For Long Trips - Long distance trips by car or truck can be dangerous during the winter, so here are some suggestions for minimizing the chance of the trip becoming a tragedy:
- find out about expected weather conditions at locations along your route
- tune into local stations or use mobile phone weather/traffic apps for information on road conditions
- give persons on either end of your trip a travel itinerary including planned departure and arrival times and call these persons to let them know of your safe arrival
- stop frequently for resting and re-fueling
- travel as much as possible in daylight
- be familiar with your route, carry recent maps and prepare alternate routes
- be prepared for travel delays and be willing to pull over on the road or to stop at road shelters to wait out poor driving conditions
- pull your car over as far off the road as possible to avoid being hit
- put on any additional clothing to keep warn
- use phone or radio to call for help
- it is better to stay with the car and run the engine periodically, not continuously
- conserve your energy; over-exertion by trying to move your vehicle or shoveling too long endangers your health
- melt snow for drinking water
- move your arms and legs to improve your circulation and to keep warmer
- before leaving your vehicle, consider the outside temperature. A person can freeze very quickly, especially if there is much wind
- If you are stranded in an area where there is regular traffic, put on your flashers or raise your car's hood to attract help
Winter often does provide a beautiful backdrop in which to drive, but it helps if you're patient, cautious, realistic and prepared. Be sure to read Winter Driving - Parts 1 and 3