Start thinking about safe driving in winter conditions Published Oct. 28, 2010 By Troy Weaver 90th Missile Wing Traffic Safety Manager F. E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo. -- It is getting to be about time to start thinking about driving in winter conditions. It is a known fact the weather can change quickly for Air Force Global Strike Command bases here in the West. Driving in snow and ice is serious business, and winter storms can strand drivers for hours before help arrives. Driving on snow and ice requires extra care and a lot of patience. Slow down and maintain extra distance between vehicles. Do not use cruise control. Roads that appear clear can have sudden slippery spots and the slightest touch of the brakes to deactivate the cruise control can cause a loss of control of the vehicle. If one does hit ice, do not panic, this could cause even more problems such as going into a skid. If starting to skid, ease off the gas pedal, turn into the skid and then once control of the vehicle is reestablished, slowly apply the brakes and pull off the road. Stopping on snow and ice requires a much greater distance than normal dry conditions. Anticipate the stop and avoid any sudden maneuvers. Most importantly, don't "lock-up" the brakes. Ease off the accelerator and let the engine slow the vehicle down. If the vehicle is equipped with Anti-Lock Brakes, apply firm, steady pressure. With older style brakes, apply steady pressure to the pedal, but do not lock the brakes. Also, try to alternate between applying and releasing the brakes while avoiding skidding. At 30 F, ice is twice as slippery as it is at zero. It forms first and lasts longer on bridges, overpasses and in shady areas. Do not try to brake, accelerate or downshift if hitting an unexpected ice patch. Instead, ease off the accelerator, keep both hands on the steering wheel and drive through the icy area. The same steps apply if water on the road.While these suggestions will help one arrive at a destination safely during the winter months, there is much more one can do. Let someone know the specific details of your travel plans. Plan for shorter days of driving and allow for extra time, whether you are driving across town or across country. Check weather and travel conditions before leaving and make sure to have an emergency kit in your car. If stranded, stay in the vehicle. Do not leave it to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards. Disorientation and getting lost in blowing and drifting snow is a risk. Turn the hazard lights on and hang a distress flag from the radio antenna or window. Conserve fuel, but run the engine about ten minutes each hour to keep warm, crack a downwind window slightly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Exercise to maintain body heat but don't overexert. Huddling with other passengers and using a coat as a blanket are other ways to keep warm. Keep the exhaust pipe as clear of snow as possible. Turn on the inside dome light so rescue teams can see the vehicle at night, but be careful not to run the battery down. Once the blizzard or storm is over, leaving the car and proceeding on foot may be necessary. Follow the road if possible. If needing to walk across open country, use distant points as landmarks to help maintain a sense of direction. Making good decisions prior to and during a trip will ensure a safe return.