Drive Safely This Winter

With the Philadelphia International Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center and winter weather in the forecast, now is a good time to review some safe driving tips for the winter. Remember, during a snow or ice storm it is safer to stay off the roads or use public transportation.

If you must drive:

• Avoid driving until road crews clear roadways.
• Keep an emergency kit in your car.
• Let family or friends know your travel schedules and routes.
• Keep a supply of sand, kitty litter or road salt in your car for generating traction.
• Carry a cell phone.
• Before starting your car, clear snow from the tail pipe to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Completely clear your vehicle of snow and ice, including windows, mirrors, roof, trunk, hood, and lights. 
• Allow extra time and use caution while driving.
• Travel in daylight and don't travel alone.
• Turn on your lights to increase visibility to other motorists. Use low beams during heavy or blowing snow.
• Stay on main roads.
• Be aware of potentially icy areas, such as shady spots, bridges and overpasses.
• Drive at speeds dictated by conditions. Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills. Don't use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
• Avoid sudden stops and starts. Brake gently to prevent skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
• Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the roadway.
• Do not pass a snowplow or spreader unless it is absolutely necessary. Treat these vehicles as you would emergency response vehicles.
• Stay tuned to the news for updates on the weather and road conditions or sign up for these alerts from ReadyNotifyPA, the region emergency text/email alert system.
• Don't assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel drive and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.

If you get stranded in your car:

• Pull off the highway and turn on your hazard lights.
• Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter.
• Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open a downwind window slightly for ventilation and periodically clear snow from the tail pipe to guard against carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Take turn sleeping. One person should stay awake to look for rescue crews.
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.

For more information on winter driving, preparing for the winter or a list of supplies for a car emergency kit, visit the Winter Weather page of the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management.