As the temperatures continue to drop across Southern Utah, it’s important to prepare for cold weather and snow to come.
Three areas important to assess for winter preparedness are your vehicle, your house and your wardrobe. This week’s survival tip focuses on vehicle preparedness.
There are several parts of your vehicle that need to be looked at before the snow falls. The first is batteries. Testing automotive batteries periodically to ensure they are in good working condition is a good habit to get into. This is especially important before winter; cold weather is notorious for draining and killing batteries when you need them the most.
The second part of your vehicle in need of checking is tires. Balled or unevenly worn tires can mean disaster on a slick, snow and ice covered road. Tires in good condition can help prevent skidding when brakes are applied.
Vehicles with tires geared towards warmer weather need to be switched to snow tires. Those with 2-wheel drive vehicles should look into acquiring a pair of snow chains to help with traction on especially snowy days. Additionally, those with 4-wheel drive should make sure their vehicle can successfully shift in and out of 4-wheel drive.
Lights are the third and final part of your vehicle that requires attention before winter. Headlights, tail lights, brake lights and turn turn signals all need to be in perfect working order. Blowing snow greatly reduces visibility: proper working lights can help prevent a tragic accident.
Check back next week for tips to make sure your house or apartment is prepared for the cold weather.
Story By
Mitchell Quartz
outside@suunews.com
