Snow and cold calls for driver preparation

Snow and cold weather can create extremely dangerous driving conditions for motorists on most highways statewide. AAA advises motorists to prepare themselves and their car. Motorists are advised to monitor weather conditions and follow advice from authorities. If it is not safe to travel and you don’t have to travel, don’t drive.

During severe winter weather AAA receives a high number of road service calls. AAA also advises that priority service will be given to members who are stranded or in a dangerous situation.

AAA recommends if motorists become stranded, it is best to stay with the vehicle. Your car can provide shelter and enable emergency responders to best locate you. If you can start your engine, run it only long enough to keep warm. Make sure the exhaust pipe is snow-free.

Proper Preparation

Preparing for frigid weather conditions will help keep your vehicle on the road, advises AAA. Motorists can help keep their vehicles on the road by doing the following:

• Check your battery strength. Faulty batteries cause more car starting problems than any other factor. At 0 degrees, a good battery has 35 percent less starting power. Additionally, batteries that are 3-5 years old will have much less starting power in cold conditions.

• Have tires properly inflated. Under-inflated tires can be dangerous, and may suffer damage. Tire air pressure decreases 1-2 psi for every 10 degree temperature drop.

• Park your car in the garage. If you have no garage, put a tarp over the hood or park protected from prevailing winds. To keep doors from freezing shut, place a plastic trash bag between the door and the frame.

• Make sure your car has an emergency kit, which should include the following: Cell phone and charger, jumper cables, extra clothes, flares and flashlights, food, first aid kit, ice scraper, shovel and windshield washer fluid.