Just For Kids

Winter Travel

Winter travel calls for extra care even under normal weather conditions. Snow and ice on roadways can reduce tire traction, while vehicle exhaust and ice fog can reduce visibility. The best safety precaution to take during severe winter weather conditions is to avoid traveling at all. However, if you must drive, be prepared.

Precautions:

• Drive carefully. Avoid driving if a winter storm warning or blizzard warning has been issued for your area of travel. Respect road conditions. Prior to setting out, check local highway or road conditions hotlines.
  
  
• Turn back or seek refuge if conditions deteriorate. Don't be daring.
  
  
• Keep to main roads as much as possible.
  
  
• Travel by daylight and with a companion if possible. When traveling alone, make sure someone knows which route you are taking, and your departure and arrival times. Be sure to notify them of your arrival to prevent an unnecessary search.
  
  
• Keep the radio on, and listen for weather information and possible weather warnings.
  
  
• Keep the gas tank full and car in good running condition, properly serviced, with snow tires and chains.
  
  
• Carry your winter travel kit in your car at all times.

If Stranded:

• Don't panic.
  
  
• Stay with your car. You'll be sheltered and easier to find. Move your car off the roadway to avoid collisions with other vehicles. Do not attempt to walk for help. Many travelers have suffered hypothermia or frostbite or even death.
  
  
• Avoid over-exertion or exposure.
  
  
• Set out warning flares or other markers such as a bright cloth hung from the car window or aerial. Car engines should be run for ten minutes each hour.
  
  
• Check exhaust pipe frequently to ensure it's not becoming blocked with snow.
  
  
• Keep fresh air inside the car by slightly opening a window and running the motor sparingly.
  
  
• Use the dome light instead of headlights. Using headlights will run the battery down too quickly.
  
  
• Keep moving. Exercise hands, arms and legs to prevent frostbite.
  
  
• Watch for traffic or search parties. Don't fall asleep.

Winter Travel Kit:

• Shovel, kitty litter, and bag of sand
• Axe or hatchet
• Booster cables
• Battery operated radio
• Tow chain
• Flashlight and road flares
• Tools: for tire-changes and minor repairs
• Methyl hydrate: for fuel line and windshield de-icing
• Fire extinguisher
• First Aid Kit
• Matches and a candle to provide heat if engine fails. Partially open lee-side window for ventilation.
• Extra clothing and footwear
• Blankets
• Extra food
• Sugar cubes or hard candy to provide you with instant energy and to help keep your body warm.
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Signal aids (red cloth for antenna and a whistle)
• Plastic garbage bag to keep you dry
• Twelve hour thermal heat packs to warm feet, hands, etc.
• Coffee tins (one for a waste receptacle and one for the candle)
• Road maps and a compass