Driving safe during holidays: Fall, winter safety tips Published Dec. 7, 2006 By 43rd Logistics Readiness Squadron POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- As we transition from summer to winter months, there are driving challenges that we should all actively engage to ensure safety on the road. These challenges are equally important to the seasoned driver as well as to new drivers. Please review the following helpful driving tips: Ensure vehicle is road worthy - Tires -- these are often the most neglected item on your vehicle. Check and adjust the tire pressure. Refer to your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure. You might also find this information on a sticker in the glove box or on the driver's door jamb. The tire pressure printed on the sidewall of your tire is the maximum tire pressure and not necessarily the recommended pressure for your vehicle. - Tread Depth -- Look in the grooves between tire tread for raised patches of rubber called wear bars. These 2/32-inch tall patches will help identify a worn out tire. If tread is worn to a level where wear bars are flush with the tread, it indicates that tread depth is 2/32-inch or less. Replace worn tires. If your tires do not have wear bars, place a U.S. penny into a groove between the tread with Lincoln's head down. If tread is at or beyond the top of Lincoln's head you have at least 3/32-inch of tread left, a satisfactory level. - Damage -- Check for cuts, gouges, bruises and cracks that could compromise the tire. If unsure, ask a service attendant to inspect for you. - Lights -- Winter days are short, and lights are used even during daytime hours. It is important to make sure all of your vehicle lights are in good working order. Be sure to check the headlights, taillights, turn signals, fog lights and brake lights. - Brakes -- If your brakes have not been checked in six months have a professional check them before the dark, cold days of winter. Carry emergency gear It is especially important to carry emergency gear during the winter. A breakdown can occur at any time, and even new vehicles break down. It's best to be prepared. A basic emergency kit should include a blanket, flashlight, red cloth or flag and reflective warning signs. You should also carry bottled water, extra coolant, extra oil, and for the winter months, an extra coat and boots. Extra food is good too, especially if you're traveling with youngsters. Also, keep your gas tank full. Manage stress when driving There are many holidays when families get together during the winter months. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination. Don't wait until the last second to head out, and plan your travel time realistically. If you are unfamiliar with the route, review it on a map and orient yourself to the directions before departing. Don't try to figure it out while driving. Before that long drive, get in the proper frame of mind by practicing stress-management techniques. Get plenty of rest the night before, plan rest stops for every few hours and get out of the vehicle to stretch. Share the drive if possible. Also refrain from arguments or heated conversations while driving, as these can be a major distraction and add to your stress. Adhere to Safe Driving Practices Don't drink and drive, and remember that lack of sleep can heighten alcohol's effect on you. If you're tired, one drink can feel like four or five. Review your medications, too. Be sure they don't impair your ability to drive. Remember, posted speed limits are for ideal road and weather conditions so slow down. Take the time to educate new drivers on the dangers of driving on snow covered or slick roads. New drivers and those from warmer climates may have never experienced the danger of slipping on snow or ice. If possible, and if it can be done safely, take them to an open parking area to get a feel for the vehicle slipping on snow or ice. Deer on the road The Department of Environmental Conservation provides the following list of precautions motorists can take to reduce their chances of striking a deer. - Use extreme caution if driving at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active and visibility is poor. This means deer are often most active during peak commuter traveling times. - The risk of deer/vehicle collisions is greatest during fall and early winter. Two thirds of these crashes occur in October, November and December when deer movements peak due to the onset of the breeding season. - Slow down when approaching deer standing near roadsides. Deer may "bolt" or change direction at the last minute. - If you see a deer cross the road, slow down and use extreme caution. Deer often travel in groups -- if you see one, expect more. - Use flashers or a headlight signal to warn other drivers when deer are spotted on or near the road. - Use caution and be alert when passing through areas marked with deer crossing signs. These signs are placed in areas that have shown a high incidence of deer/vehicle collisions in the past. The number one cause of winter driving accidents is driving too fast. Remember to drive slowly, pay close attention, and wear your seatbelt. In doing so, you can significantly reduce your chances of having an accident and/or injury.