Winter Weather Driving Toolbox Talk

Winter Driving Safety Talk

Getting behind the wheel of a car is a major responsibility, even on a clear summer day. Winter weather driving is a different beast entirely. Driving in snow, sleet, or slick conditions is a risk. When winter weather starts to accumulate on the roads, hazards increase, and accidents happen.

Not all states experience snow or ice. If you aren't familiar with the safe driving habits to use while there in winter weather, it can be a very difficult task. Even people who have driven in snow for years should be extra conscious and aware.

In this five minute safety talk on winter driving, we’ll cover how to be a safe winter driver, tips for driving in snow and ice, and what supplies to always keep in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

Winter driving safety tips

When you have to drive in winter weather, it is very important that you learn how to do so as safely as possible. Winter driving is a learned skill, and snow and ice on the road can pose a real problem for many people unaccustomed to it.

Here are some tips for being a safer driver during winter:

1. Avoid driving unless necessary

If you can avoid driving in winter weather conditions, you should do so. Think about the jobs and tasks that could be completed on other days and consider rescheduling if roads are unsafe. In construction, many tasks cannot be performed in wet conditions anyway. It's better to be safe than sorry.

2. Plan ahead

If you need to travel for work, you should always keep an eye on weather reports. When you live in an area that you know does experience snowy conditions, you should plan your drive ahead of time and be prepared to make adjustments.

If winter weather is predicted, you may need to leave a day earlier or later than initially planned, but safety comes first.

3. Drive slowly

The way that you drive should change when it is snowing or icy outside. You cannot travel at the same speeds as you would if the road were clear and dry.

When you go slowly, you are able to pay closer attention and have ample time to stop if needed.

4. Be defensive while driving

To be a defensive driver means that you are aware of your surroundings. You should always keep a good distance between you and other drivers in snowy conditions.

Can your trip wait? If not, make a plan

It's important to remember that when there are dangerous conditions on the road, that you may be better off staying put. Think to yourself about the necessity of the trip you're planning to take. Can it wait?

If your trip cannot wait, you need to make a plan. Think about the safest roads to use while driving. Main roads are going to be clearer than side roads. If you are headed into work, make sure your supervisor and coworkers are aware that you are on your way. This can:

• Let them know you are on your way

• Let them know you may be late

• Keep them aware that you are traveling in bad conditions

• Allow them to better be able to send help if you need it

Tips for driving in snow and ice

Here are some tips to prevent accidents while driving in the snow, sleet, and ice:

1. Increase your follow distance

Add an additional 5 to 6 seconds to your regular following distance. This is a safer distance in slick conditions and gives you time to react better if you start to slide.

2. Try not to brake hard

Coming to a complete stop on slick roads is a challenge. You need to be far enough from other vehicles at all times to be able to slow down slowly and progressively.

3. Take your time

Don't rush, you'll make better decisions when you take your time. Being safe is more important than being on time.

4. Keep your speed steady

Accelerating and braking are different on ice and snow. Trying to maintain a steady speed is going to help you keep better control of the vehicle.

5. Never brake on a hill

When you are on a hill, you should never try to brake. You are more likely to roll backward and be unable to gain control until you are on more level ground or until you crash.

6. Increase and decrease speed slowly

When you are pressing on the gas pedal, do so slowly. The same goes for when you are braking. Quick changes can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.

7. Always have at least half a tank of gas

In case you breakdown, you should always have half a tank of gas in your vehicle. This way you can stay warm if you crash or break down. Also, having extra gas is helpful when you get stuck in traffic due to weather conditions.

8. Don’t use cruise control

Cruise control prevents you from having instant control of your vehicle, should a hazard suddenly appear. You want to be the one controlling the accelerating and braking when there are dangerous conditions on the road.

Things to have in your vehicle in case of a winter emergency

You never know when your car may break down or an accident will occur. That is why it is a good idea to have a few supplies in your car. The cold winter weather can be brutal if you aren't prepared.

Some good items to have in your car at all times if you are traveling in the snow and ice are:

• A blanket to stay warm while waiting on help

• Gloves, scarves, and a jacket

• Water bottles or something hydrating to drink

• Nonperishable foods to eat

• A flashlight

• Something to scrape ice off your windshield