Winter driving tips

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Joe Yanik
  • 512th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Winter is here, and with decreased temperatures comes an increased exposure to driving hazards. The 512th Airlift Wing Ground Safety Manager Master Sgt. Kevin Casquarelli offers some guidelines to help keep Airmen safe while they steer through snowy streets this season.

"Not properly scraping the ice off of car windows is one of the most common safety precautions many people overlook during the winter months," said Casquarelli. "When windows aren't scraped properly, you can't see what's going on out there. Plus, security forces will cite you for it."

Tech. Sgt. William Yoder from the 512th Security Forces Squadron agrees.

"Not only is ice on windows a common violation during the winter so is snow on the car roof," said Yoder. "Not clearing the snow means a hazard for other drivers."

He added that checking tire conditions is important too.

"If a vehicle is in an accident, we check the tread on the tires," said Yoder. "If they're bald, that's a violation."

More tips for winterizing your vehicle can be found at http://www.weather.com/outlook/driving and the Department of Motor Vehicles website. Several examples include:

Tune-up your car: Low temperatures and freezing precipitation take a heavy adverse toll on a vehicle's performance. Car maintenance ensures better gas mileage, quicker starts and faster response on pick-up and passing power.

Monitor brake serviceability: Brakes need to be checked frequently by the driver and periodically by a mechanic for smooth and consistent stopping. To stop on ice and snow, lightly depress the brakes. This also applies to vehicles with anti-lock braking systems.

Maintain adequate levels of antifreeze: Antifreeze protects the engine and radiator from corrosion damage that occurs when precipitation seeps under the hood and contacts the metal components, including steel and aluminum.

Carry an emergency kit: In the event of a breakdown, motorists should have a kit which includes items like flashlights with fresh batteries, blankets, booster cables, and flares as well as a charged cell phone, reflective triangle, small shovel, can of de-icer and an ice scraper.

Change the engine oil: Because outside temperatures influence the internal temperature of a car's engine, motorists need to make sure to use the proper oil for the conditions. During the winter months, if temperatures get below freezing, it's important to switch over to thinner, less viscous oil.

Clean your windshield: An easily overlooked part of a winterizing program is the windshield. For best results in clearing off cold, heavy grime, select a washer fluid with an antifreeze solution. But, beware, some washer fluids can be harsh and damage car paint.

De-ice your locks: Door locks can freeze in cold weather. Glycerin can be used when warm water is not available. Place a tube in the emergency kit inside the vehicle and stock another outside the vehicle, at home in the garage or in a desk at work.

"Winter weather presents numerous driving hazards, and I hope everyone keeps driving safety a priority," said Casquarelli. "By avoiding accidents and being prepared for the unexpected, the 512th (AW) community greatly contributes to maintaining mission-ready status."