Sensible Safety Tips for Wisconsin Winter Driving
Stay safe on slippery roads!
Welcome to the chilly Wisconsin/Upper Michigan winter! Adding cold and snow to our usual unpredictable weather is never any fun. Here are a few simple tips to stay warm and safe on Midwestern roads this winter!
Slow Down
It’s easier to control your vehicle at slower speeds
It’s easier to avoid surprises
Leave a little earlier so you don’t feel rushed
Increase following distance
Give yourself plenty of room to stop in slippery conditions
Do NOT crowd snow plows
It takes more power to start a cold engine
Battery efficiency decreases in cold weather
Check all your lights
Lights are an important safety feature, especially when we have less daylight
Make sure you brush off snow and ice!
Check wipers and top off your windshield washer fluid
Keep snow and slush off your windshield so you can see
Don’t be afraid to stop on a side street to clear your windshield
Top off your gas tank when possible. A full tank helps avoid:
Water condensation that can dilute fuel
Frozen gas lines
Mechanical issues
Worrying about gas if you have to wait out a storm
Remember to keep a few cold weather accessories in your car, not only in case of an emergency, but just to make your life a little easier and more comfortable!
Ice scraper/brush for your windows
Always keep your windows clear!
Remember to clear snow off your roof
Small or collapsible snow shovel
You might need to clear a snow pile that’s in your way (don’t Dukes of Hazzard that stuff!)
If you get stuck, digging yourself out is easier with a shovel
Cat litter or sand
Coarse (non-clumping) litter or sand can help provide traction if you’re stuck on ice
A bag in your trunk also provides a little extra weight for traction
Even if you don’t need them, someone else might!
The cold can affect your battery’s performance
Flashlight
Useful when daylight hours are scarce
Save your phone battery for calls!
First Aid kit
You can get a small kit that fits in your glove box
It’s the ideal just-in-case item
Blankets
One for you, one for your passengers
Fleece throws are inexpensive and fold up small
Cellphone charger
Phones are no good unless they’re charged!
You probably have plenty of extras lying around – keep one in your glove box
Food and water
Keep a couple bottles of water and some protein bars in a sealed container
If you’re stuck somewhere, they will keep you hydrated and energized
Extra medicine
If you take regular medication, keep a day’s worth in your glove box just in case
It looks like a long list, but taking these common-sense precautions will make your Wisconsin (or Michigan) winter easier on both you and your car! Even if you don’t use your jumper cables or snow shovel for years, the one time you need them, you’ll be glad you have them.
Remember to stop by your local Fuel On convenience store! Not only can we help keep your gas tank topped off to prevent freezing and condensation, but we have plenty of snacks, drinks, and winter accessories. We even have cat litter!
Keep warm and stay safe this winter!
