December 13, 2005

Lansing - As the holiday season begins, the Michigan State Police is providing motorists with some tips to ensure they arrive at their holiday destinations safely.

For safe driving during the winter season, MSP recommends you:

• Keep tires at the car manufacturer’s recommended pressure and routinely check tire pressure during cold weather.
• Keep windshield solvent at full strength and make sure the reservoir is full, and keep new wiper blades on front and rear wipers, if so equipped.
• Wash your car for better visibility to other drivers, and remove ice and snow from all lights, windows and the license plate before driving.
• Periodically check all lights and replace when necessary.
• Prepare a winter driving survival kit with items such as: an extra winter coat, pants, hat, boots and gloves; a flashlight with batteries; candle and candle holder; dry container of matches; jumper cables; tow strap; first aid kit; shovel; salt or kitty litter; road flares; and a spare tire and jack.
• If you are stranded in a winter storm, do not leave your vehicle. Stay with the vehicle and wait for help.

"Michigan weather is unpredictable any time of the year, but especially during the winter months," said Sergeant James Flegel, MSP Precision Driving Unit. "The most important fact to remember is the handling capability of your car is drastically reduced in winter weather so it is best to use a slower speed to compensate for poor handling."

Additionally, MSP troopers remind motorists to be aware of several factors when stopping and turning in winter weather. Remember to do all of your braking before the turn is made and take a proper line of travel through the turn to reduce the potential for a skid to occur. If your car begins to skid, correct the skid by getting off the throttle, staying off the brakes and use quick hand over hand steering technique to turn the front tires in the direction you want to go.

Citizens are encouraged to visit the Winter Travel Advisory web site at www.michigan.gov/roadconditions, to check road conditions before they travel.

 Read more news releases from the Michigan State Police.