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Keep a winter-driving safty "kit" in your trunkFeb 14 '00 Write an essay on this topic.Winter is upon us and it just does not seem to want to go away this year. I live in a rural mountainous area of North-East Pennsylvania, and drive to work across state lines into New York state. Not only do I have to face the challenge of my driveway (approx. 1,000 feet, long and sloping, with lots of lovely evergreen trees that help keep the sun from hitting and melting the snow/ice), but once I get to the hardtop road, it is generally barely, sorta, plowed. I often times do not see more than a glimmer of pavement until I cross state lines. The whole way I just cannot wait to get to the New York line because I know the road will be not only cleared, but even the shoulders of the road are cleared. Now I've seen my share of snow and harsh winters, but I grew up in a one-stop light beach town on the gulf coast of Florida. I drive slower on snowy, icy roads, and start to slow down before the crest of a hill or before a stop sign. I think that is just what you are supposed to do. I think I drive that way partly from fear of careening of some mountainside, and partly because it makes good driving sense in bad weather. There are plenty of drivers out there though who seem to disregard even the very basic of road rules. They want to get where they are going and will torment you until you move over or they can get around. Now I do realize that I may drive slower than most drivers in the snow and if there is a pull-over spot I will gladly let others go by. However, there are some sections of road where that is an impossibility. I drive how I feel safe and in time that other driver will find their way around you. Is it better to drive how you feel safe, or to speed up and risk possibility of losing control? Winter weather is playing havoc with so many states and so many main highways this year. It is important to keep some basic items in your car in case you become stranded, run off the road, or come upon others who need help along the roadway. Some items to have in your car include: -at least one warm blanket (if you are a camper, you could keep a rolled up sleeping bag or two in your trunk--these are great for heat retention, and comfortable too) -a cellular phone if you have access to one (or one of those emergency phones you can now buy that places like AAA sell) -a few items to drink (like the small "kid size" juices with straws. Watch what you put in your car---they may freeze and you would not want broken glass or burst water jugs) -some boots (or at least extra "rugged" shoes) in case you need to walk for assistance -extra warm clothing (pull-overs, sweatshirts, sweatpants, gloves, etc) -snack items (like crackers with cheese or peanut butter, items that will keep fresh for a winter's season) -flares (to warm other drivers or to attract attention) -kitty litter (non-clumping) for traction (buy the kind that comes in a plastic jug/container to prevent bags from breaking and spilling all over your car, and for ease in pouring) -if you may have kids in the car with you, pack for them as well, and include some travel size games, books, coloring books/crayons, etc., to help keep them busy and reduce any fears that they may have about being stuck. Kids may be more comfortable too if they have a couple "car size" pillows they can nap on. -a small shovel (like a camp shovel) -a flashlight with new batteries Having the above items in your car may make the difference in staying safe in snowy/icy conditions. Hopefully you will never have to use them in an emergency situation. It is also a good idea to let others know when you should be expected to arrive. Even if you are just going to be going home--let family or neighbors know ahead of time any plans you have or any changes in plans; if you are not home within a given expected time period, then at least you will be missed that day/night, not days later. Safe driving to you all. Give yourself extra time--better to get there late than wind up in a ditch or in the hospital.  |
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