Preparing Your Vehicle For Inclement Weather

The Dalton Police Department would like to remind motorists to prepare their motor vehicles before inclement weather hits the Dalton area.  There are several important things that need to be checked on your vehicle and several things that should be carried inside your vehicle in case you become stranded.

The following is a list of things that should be checked to ensure your vehicle is in good operating condition.

• Have the car battery tested
• Check the antifreeze level and effectiveness at sub-freezing temperatures
• Make sure the windshield wipers are in good condition
• Check the windshield washer fluid
• Make sure all lights are working correctly, including flashing hazard lights
• Have the brakes inspected
• Check the tire tread
• Make sure the inside heater and defrost is in proper working condition

Motorists should also keep the following items in their vehicles when traveling in inclement weather, no matter how short a distance they may be traveling.

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Blanket
• Extra cap and gloves/mittens
• Rain gear
• Small tool kit and booster cables
• Small bag of kitty litter for tire traction
• Bottled water and snack foods/power bars
• Brightly colored cloth

The Dalton Police Department would also like to remind motorists of some driving tips during inclement weather.  During inclement weather be sure to travel only when necessary.  Leave early, avoid lightly traveled roads and expect driving delays.  Motorists should slow down on wet or slick roads and drive much slower than the posted speed limit.  Avoid quick accelerations, hard braking and quick turns or lane changes. 

If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle as long as possible.  During the day, you can hang a bright colored rag or cloth on the antenna of your car and at night turn on the flashing hazard lights.  If possible, run the engine and heat for short periods of time to provide warmth.