Safe Driving Techniques: Winter Driving

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Safe Driving Techniques Winter Driving

• Niagara College Joint Health and Safety Committee

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AGENDA

• Driving Statistics
• Driving Tips/Techniques
• How to Be Prepared
• Rules of Winter Driving (recognizing, assessing,
  and controlling)
• Drivers Checklist
• Before the Road
• On the Road
• Survival Kit
• Company Vehicle Policies
• Conclusion

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Collisions and Casualties - 2001-2005
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Fatalities and Injuries by Age Group 2005
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Winter Deaths

• Everyone is potentially at risk during winter
  storms. The actual threat to you depends on your
  specific situation. Recent observations indicate
  the following
• Related to ice and snow
• About 70 occur in automobiles.
• About 25 are people caught out in the storm.
• Majority are males over 40 years old.

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Driving Tips/Techniques

• Always obey traffic rules and regulations
• Be sure to check maintenance of vehicle on
  regular basis, fluids, wipers, etc.
• Keep field of vision clear
• Be aware of Blind spots
• Maintain a minimum following distance (DONT
  TAILGATE)
• Do a 360 vehicle check, ensuring no obstacles
  are in the way
• If applicable, be sure all tools, ladders, etc.
  are secure in and outside the vehicle

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Be Prepared for Winter Weather

• Maintain proper maintenance of vehicle
• Be aware of driving conditions
• Plan route
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Clear all ice/snow debris from vehicle
• Top up all fluids before heading out
• Bring a passenger if possible
• Inform others of your travel plans
• Have at least a ½ tank of gas at all times
• Travel during daylight hours if possible
• Have a Winter Safety Kit in the Car

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Winter Driving Safety Kit Should Include

• Snow shovel
• Scraper with brush on one end
• Tow chain or strap
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Abrasive material (cat litter, sand, or traction
  mats)
• Jumper cables and small tool kit
• Warning devices (flares or reflective triangles)
• Brightly colored cloth/panel to signal for help
• Cellular phone
• Candles, matches, or lighter
• High-energy food (e.g., chocolate or dried fruit)
  and water
• Sleeping bags, blankets, and extra clothing
• First Aid Kit

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What to Watch for While on the Road

• Visibility
• Spacing
• Braking
• Skidding
• Snowy/Icy Roads
• Stopping/Driving Distances
• Other drivers

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Poor Driving Conditions

• Slow down!
• Posted speed limits are for ideal weather
  maximum visibility.
• Posted speed may not be valid in poor conditions,
  and you could be issued a citation by law
  enforcement authorities.
• Completely clear vehicle of snow and ice.

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Rules of Winter Driving

• Make sure all movements are controlled and
  deliberate. Accelerate slowly to avoid loss of
  traction and subsequent loss of control.
• Move in a manner that will allow others to adjust
  to your actions.
• Anticipate actions of other drivers and DRIVE
  DEFENSIVELY.
• Bridges and overpasses freeze before other road
  surfaces use caution.

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Winter Driving, cont.

• Remember Smooth Slow on ice snow. Beware
  of black ice when the roadway appears dry but
  the color of the pavement is darker and dull
  looking.
• Driving in winter conditions causes rapid mental
  and physical fatigue and reduces reaction times.
• Pass with care passing lanes are not as well
  maintained as driving lanes.

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Winter Driving, cont.

• Use greater following distances. Stopping
  distances on roads with ice snow can triple
  over distance under normal conditions. Double or
  triple the 2-second count rule to create a safety
  buffer zone behind the vehicle in front of yours.

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Winter Driving, cont.

• Brake steer gently and deliberately. Brake
  carefully with short rapid application (pumping)
  of the brakes in non-antilock systems and steady
  pressure in vehicles equipped with antilock
  braking systems (ABS).
• Turn on your low-beam headlights or fog lights
  whenever fog, rain or snow reduces visibility.
  High beams increase the glare and reduce
  visibility.

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Make it Company PolicyThings to Remember

• Must follow all Traffic Laws
• Any infractions employees receive will be their
  responsibility
• It is expected that all employees will comply
  with set guidelines regarding the use of company
  vehicles
• Employee must be in possession of valid drivers
  license
• Only employee issued company vehicle is allowed
  to use vehicle
• If infraction is issued it must be communicated
  immediately to management
• Be prepared to refresh training as seasons change
• STAY UP TO DATE WITH TRAINING AND LEGISLATION

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Conclusion

• Stay alert, slow down and stay in control.
• Follow your companies guidelines at all times
• Always obey traffic laws and regulations
• PLAY IT SAFE!Severe winter driving conditions
  may make you nervous, uncomfortable, or fearful.
  Stay off the road unless your trip is absolutely
  necessary. Proper preparation and the right
  skills will help you face the challenge of winter
  driving.