As inclement weather moves into the North Georgia Area, motorists are reminded of certain steps they should take in preparing their vehicles for these conditions. Keeping your vehicle properly maintained and always having an emergency kit can lesson your chances of becoming stranded on the side of the road and if stranded, able to stay alive until help can arrive.
There are several important things that need to be checked on your vehicles as well as items that should be carried in case you become stranded.
The following is a list of things that should be checked on your vehicle to ensure they are in good working order.
- Have your car battery tested
- Have the antifreeze level and effectiveness at sub-freezing temperatures checked
- Make sure the windshield wipers are in good condition
- Check the windshield washer fluid level and fill with windshield washer fluid instead of water
- Make sure all lights are working correctly, including flashing hazard lights
- Have the brakes inspected
- Have the tire tread checked
- Make sure the inside heater and defrost is in proper working condition
An emergency kit is also recommended and should always be kept in the vehicle. The kit should include:
- Flashlight and extra batteries - lithium batteries are preferable since they do not discharge during non-use
- Blanket
- Extra cap and gloves/mittens
- Small too kit and booster cables
- Small bag of kitty litter - Used to gain traction in icy road conditions
- Bottles water and snack foods/powerbars
- Brightly colored cloth - used as a signaling device
- First Aid Kit
The police department would also like to remind motorist of some driving tips during inclement weather:
- Limit travel to essential travel only
- Leave early and expect there to be driving delays and avoid lightly traveled roads
- Motorist should slow down on wet or slick roads due to rain and snow and drive much slower than the posted speed limit
- Avoid quick accelerations, hard braking and quick turns or lane changes
- Keep gas tank filled to reduce chances of running out of gas if stranded
If you become stranded, if is recommended that you do the following:
- Stay with your vehicle as long as possible
- During the day, hang the brightly colored cloth on your antenna
- During the night, used your emergency flashers
- If possible, run the engine for short periods of time to provide warmth
If you have further questions about this topic, please contact Officer Steve Zahn at 706-278-9085 ext. 124 or by email at szahn@cityofdalton-ga.gov.
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