10 Winter Storm Safety Tips

Can you believe that New England is getting another winter storm? Instead of warm rain and blooming flowers in the first week of Spring, Massachusetts will be covered with anywhere from 2 to 12 inches of snow. As the state prepares for another storm, driving may seem inevitable for most people. Although it is best that you stay indoors, we have highlighted ten of the best snow storm safety tips for both on and off the road safety.

1. Check the weather. Check the local weather station for the most up to date news on current weather conditions before leaving your home.
2. Get prepared. If you need to get on the road, equip your vehicle with an ice scraper, an emergency kit (jumper cables, first aid kit, flashlight, cones, etc.), snow shovel, sand, and salt.
3. Use winter/snow tires. Winter/snow tires perform the best in cold, snowy conditions compared to all-season tires due to the better snow traction as they are made specifically to handle ice and snow.
4. Properly inflated tires. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated.
5. Check gas tank. Make sure that your vehicle is at least half full with gas and/or an electric charge.
6. Automatic car starter. When using an automatic car starter, turn the defrosting settings on to defrost your windows and never start your vehicle while your vehicle is indoords.
7. Vehicle free of snow. If you need to drive your vehicle during a snowstorm, make sure that your vehicle is free of snow. This includes your license plates being visible, lights, reflectors, mirrors, windows, roof, hood, and wheel wells.
8. Headlights on. Keep your headlights on while driving to improve visibility as a driver and aware other drivers that you are on the road.
9. Drive with ease. If you need to brake, brake your vehicle with ease and avoid slamming on the brake pedal. Don’t accelerate fast up or down hill. Use your blinker when making turning.
10. Schedule service after the storm. If you find yourself hearing something off with your vehicle and/or a lot of build up from snow and sand, a check-up and car wash will do your vehicle good. Schedule your appointment at our service center here.

Here’s to having a safe, fourth nor’easter!