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AAA Michigan Has Tips for Coping With Snow

21 January 2000

AAA Michigan Has Tips for Coping With Snow

    DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 20 -- Frigid air and blowing snow
across much of the state have created challenging driving conditions,
according to AAA Michigan.  Motorists are advised to use extra caution as they
travel today and tonight, when colder temperatures are expected.
    As of 11 a.m. today (Jan. 20), the Auto Club reported 1,400 Emergency Road
Service (ERS) calls handled -- slightly above normal levels, with a 24-hour
winter period averaging nearly 2,000 calls.  To help motorists avoid
unnecessary delays, AAA Michigan offers the following cold weather car travel
safety tips:

    *  Clear all snow and ice from the entire car.
    *  Reduce speed and increase following distance on winter roads.
    *  Avoid sudden stops, starts and turns to maintain control on slippery
roads.
    *  Park your car in the garage.  If you have no garage, select a place
that is protected from wind and large snow drifts.
    *  To avoid frozen door or door locks, buy a lubricant that is available
in most auto supply stores.  For best results, apply prior to the freezing
weather.
    *  Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid fuel-line freeze-up.
Adding a can of gas line deicer periodically is a good idea.
    *  Pack a winter survival kit with such items as blankets, extra clothing,
scraper, shovel, flashlight and battery cables.
    *  Always wear safety belts, keep both hands on the steering wheel and be
extra alert for other vehicles losing control.