Drive with care this winter Published Jan. 2, 2014 By Mark Weaver 94th Airlift Wing Safety Office DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- The winter can take a heavy toll on streets, highways and vehicles. When cold weather hits, most vehicles require extra maitenance and attention. Drivers should remain vigilant and alert for winter conditions they will face. Here are a few safety tips for operating your vehicle during the winter: 1. In adverse conditions, slow down. It is easy to underestimate stopping distances in the winter, especially in snow or ice. 2. Mud and snow tires are less effective on icy roads than tires with commercial treads. 3. Anytime there is fresh snow on the ground, there may be slippery ice underneath. 4. Bridges and overpasses tend to freeze before the rest of the highway. 5. In poor visibility and fog, drivers should turn on low-beam headlights, even in the daytime. 6. Ice or snow on pavement increases stopping distance significately; up to 11 times. 7. Tire chains perform best in snow and mud. They tend to slip on ice and packed snow. Chains that are improperly installed can damage tires, and create their own hazard.
