As a rule of thumb, it’s always best to avoid driving in extreme weather conditions if at all possible. But sometimes, you just can’t avoid it. Whether you’re snowed in or facing a road trip in the middle of a heat wave, there are ways to make sure you get to your destination safely. Here’s a detailed guide for how to drive safely in extreme weather conditions, when BBC Traffic Management isn’t around to control the traffic flow and keep everyone safe.
Before You Start Driving
The first step is to make sure your vehicle is up for the task. In extreme cold weather, that means making sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread depth. It also means making sure your battery is strong enough to start your car, as well as ensuring that your windshield washer fluid is filled and won’t freeze. If you’re driving in the middle of a heat wave, on the other hand, you’ll want to make sure your car’s air conditioning is working properly and that you have enough coolant.
Once you’ve made sure your car is ready for the conditions, it’s time to start driving. But before you begin, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, plan your route ahead of time and take into account any closures or delays caused by the weather. Second, let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to arrive – that way, if something happens, they’ll be able to come looking for you. Finally, give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going so that you don’t have to rush.
Driving in Extreme Cold Weather Conditions
If you find yourself driving in cold weather conditions, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
- Accelerate and decelerate slowly – don’t slam on the gas or brakes.
- Use lower gears when going up hills, as this will help prevent your wheels from spinning.
- Increase following distance so that you have more time to stop if someone cuts you off or if there’s ice on the road ahead of you.
- Be extra careful on bridges and overpasses; these areas tend to freeze first since they’re exposed to cold air from all directions.
- Watch out for black ice; this invisible layer of ice can be extremely dangerous since it’s hard to see until it’s too late.
Driving in Extreme Heat Wave Conditions
If you find yourself driving in extreme heat conditions, there are a few things you need to keep in mind as well. First, never leave anyone in the car – not even for a minute! The temperature inside a parked car can rise quickly and lead to serious health problems or even death.
Second, make sure everyone in the car is hydrated and taking frequent breaks – even if that means making less progress on your journey. Third, watch out for signs of heat exhaustion, which include heavy sweating, pale skin, dizziness, headaches and nausea. If possible, try to avoid driving during the hottest part of the day (usually between 10am and 3pm).
And finally, always monitor your car’s temperature gauge closely; if it starts creeping into the red zone, pull over immediately as this could indicate that your engine is overheating.
Following these tips will help ensure that you arrive safely at your destination – no matter what kind of weather conditions you’re facing! Remember: safety comes first! So take your time, be prepared, and drive carefully.