There won’t be much of a winter holiday this year considering the circumstances and our journeys are definitely limited to your home province. Winter driving needs some extra attention and these are some of our tips to get you to your destination safely.
Wet Road Driving
With heavy rains in some areas, drivers need to prepare for slippery and wet surfaces. All it takes is 15cm of water to list a car off the road. If you start to hydroplane, take your foot off the pedal slowly and concentrate on steering straight. Don’t brake and be gentle until you regain control.
Kids
Children are the most precious cargo you can have and the number one golden rule of keeping them safe applies: Buckle up. Make it a rule that you won’t switch on the engine until everyone is strapped in. Ensure your children also have the correct car seats or boosters for their age and weight.
Pets
For some of us, our pets are just as much a part of the family as our children are and they go with us on holiday. Travelling incorrectly with your pet can be a hazard for you and them. According to Arrive Alive, here are some tips for travelling with pets:
– Use net pet barriers to keep your animals in a safe area of the car.
– If need be, get your pet a booster seat.
– A padded pet vehicle safety harness can secure your pet to the seat.
Pre-trip Essentails
Check the weather reports before you head out and take note of how these will affect the road conditions. Here are a few things to consider when doing a pre-trip inspection:
– Clean and de-mist your windscreen and side mirrors. Clear visibility is vital! Make sure your wipers are working well and top up your washer fluid.
– Check your tyre pressure and the wear on your tyres. They should be properly inflated and still have plenty of tread to help maintain traction by dispersing water on the roads.
– Ensure your car has been recently serviced and has had all the regular checks down. These include your wipers, front and rear defrosters, car battery, oil levels, and other fluids.
Here’s to having a safe holiday this winter season – be it close to home!