Driving Safely in Winter Weather

With yet another winter storm targeting Connecticut, there are a few last-minute things people can do to get ready, including making sure to have a survival kit handy in the car. If you don’t already have one, Travelers recommends these five things you may have in your house right now, which can be used in a winter survival kit:

Old blankets - wrap a couple of old blankets in a trash bag and store in your trunk

Mismatched mittens - you’ll be happy to have dry mittens on hand if yours get wet, and, they can help another stranded motorist in need.

Boots - if you need to hike for help, your work shoes won’t do the trick. A pair of boots will save your feet in case of emergency

Kitty litter - a great tool when you need traction getting out of an icy jam

A dust pan broom - a small broom will get snow off of the car quickly

There are also a number of suggestions for staying safe on winter roads as you drive:

Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season. This helps ensure you have a source of heat if you are stuck or stranded.

If you do venture out or are unexpectedly caught in a snowstorm and encounter problems, stay in your car and wait for help. You can run the car heater to stay warm for 10 minutes every hour, but make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow. There is a danger of carbon monoxide poisoning if snow blocks the pipe and enables the deadly gas to build up in your car. Open your window slightly to help prevent the buildup.

Remember that speed limits are meant for dry roads, not roads covered in snow and ice. You should reduce your speed and increase your following distance as road conditions and visibility worsen.

Avoid passing snow plows and sand trucks. The drivers can have limited visibility, and the road in front of them could be worse than the road behind.

For more information on staying safe during winter conditions, visit www.Travelers.com.