Cops Corner: Be prepared for all winter driving conditions

  • Published
  • By by Master Sgt. Steven Dietz
  • 71st Security Forces Squadron
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Temperatures dipping near or below the freezing mark remind everyone that winter is here. Vance Air Force Base has experienced snow, sleet and ice on a few occasions this year, so drivers should be prepared for increased road hazards.

Whether drivers consider themselves experts or novices at driving in the snow and ice, preparation will go a long way no matter what their driving skill level. Practicing defensive driving is always smart.  Below are some additional tips for driving in winter weather. 

  · Vehicles are not military tanks. Clear all windows completely, and do not start driving until the entire windshield is defrosted and clear. Sometimes, people will drive while looking out a 6- or 10-inch scraped section on their windshield. This only increases the chance of being in an accident. Drivers should have non-freezing windshield washer liquid and ensure their headlights and taillights are also visible.
  · Drive at slower speeds and increase the following distance. Roadway conditions may vary depending upon the sun, shade or roadway surface. Approach bridges and overpasses with caution since they become icy sooner than the rest of the roadway.
  · Use brakes cautiously. Abrupt braking can cause brake lock-up and cause steering control loss. Use the engine to slow down opposed to the brakes whenever possible.
  · If the vehicle begins "fishtailing," lay off of the gas and steer in the same direction the vehicle is sliding.
  · If a vehicle gets stuck in snow, straighten the wheels and accelerate slowly. Avoid spinning the tires. Use sand or kitty litter under the drive wheels.
  · Be sure vehicles are maintained properly. Lights, brakes, windshield wipers, defrosters, radiator and other parts should be in good working order.
  · Use snow tires and/or chains (if allowed). Snow tires provide extra traction, and chains increase safety on snow or ice packed roads. Neither tires nor chains ensure safe driving on icy roads at normal speeds.
  · Plan ahead for winter driving. People should carry blankets, food and other survival equipment, such as shovels, in their vehicles in case they become stranded. If stranded, people should remain in their vehicles. Run the engine only for brief periods, and open the windows to prevent carbon-monoxide poisoning. People should know their location at all times. Knowing which mile marker a stranded vehicle is near on the Interstate assists help in getting there faster. 

The new entrance to Vance AFB with its traffic circles still poses issues for drivers under ideal conditions. Drivers are reminded there is no curbing along the roads or traffic circles. Drivers traveling too fast for road conditions may cause them to lose control, leave the roadway and find themselves stuck in the field or on top of the traffic circle. As stated above, slow down and provide time to get to the destination will increase one's chances of arriving safely no matter the road conditions.