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Deep Freeze Keeps ERS Requests High, Says AAA Michigan

19 December 2000

Deep Freeze Keeps ERS Requests High, Says AAA Michigan

    DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 18 Winter has returned to Michigan
with a vengeance, and sub-zero wind chills are causing a high number of spin-
outs, frozen locks and dead batteries across the state, according to AAA
Michigan.  In fact, says the Auto Club, since Monday, Dec. 11, the Emergency
Road Service (ERS) Department has serviced more than 40,000 calls for roadside
assistance -- three times the normal amount for a week.  Motorists are advised
to use extra caution as they travel tonight, when sub-zero wind chill is
expected.
    As of noon today (Dec. 18), the Auto Club projects 2,000 calls handled,
well above normal levels.  To help motorists avoid unnecessary delays, AAA
Michigan offers the following cold weather car care tips:

    *  Park your car in the garage.  If you have no garage, or if it's full of
lawn equipment or another car, put a tarpaulin over the car.  Or put a plastic
trash bag between the door (or window glass) and the frame.
    *  To avoid frozen door or door locks, buy a lubricant that is available
in most auto supply stores.
    *  Heat your key (a pocket lighter works nicely), but remember to wear
gloves or hold the key with pliers.
    *  Use a hair dryer, but make sure the extension cord is one graded for
outdoor use and the wall socket is grounded.
    *  Fill a plastic jug or bag with hot water.  Hold it against the door
panel or lock area.  But don't throw hot water on the car.  It, too, will
freeze.
    *  Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid fuel-line freeze-up.
    *  Test your battery load strength to determine its cold weather cranking
power.
    *  Remember, posted speed limits are set for ideal road and weather
conditions.  Avoid sudden starts, stops and turns.  Accelerate carefully so
car wheels don't spin.