In a Canadian winter, driving through snow, and ice is expected. Since the colder months are coming why not take the time to get ahead of winter. We’ve thought of eight Ford Winter Safety Driving tips to get you through the season.
Proper Inflated Tires
Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to decrease. Always keep your tires properly inflated and measure them regularly for optimal tire pressure.
Gas Tank Half Full
With a half full gas tank, the added weight to the vehicle helps keep ice crystals from forming in your fuel line.
Windshield Wiper Cracks
Keep an eye on your windshield wipers for cracks as they can cause streaks. Regularly top off your windshield washer fluid and keep an extra jug in your vehicle.
Cell phone charged
Emergencies can strike at any time and often it’s the one time your cell phone isn’t charged. Have a car charger handy in case you need to call for help.
Booster cable
With unpredictable weather, booster cables in your vehicle can be a lifeline. You never know when you’ll need them or if you can help another motorist.
First Aid Kit
At a critical time, a first-aid kit and warning devices, such as road flares can make all the difference. When not in use, make sure to replace items and keep the kit up to date and toss expired items.
Spinning tires
Inevitably, there will be a storm, which causes snow to pile high and getting stuck may occur. Get out of a jam by pouring sand, gravel, or salt to help improve traction. If you have Traction Control™, turn it off and accelerating gently both forward and in reverse.
Skidding
Black ice is tricky to spot especially at night. If your vehicle starts to skid, take your foot off the accelerator, gradually turn in the direction of the skid and gently apply steady pressure to the brakes. Don’t pump the brakes, as it may cause loos of control.
It never hurts to be prepared and think ahead. Stay warm with winter ready available featuers like: heated seats, heated steering wheel, and remote start, it’s easy to get into a Ford. On select 2015 and 2015 vehicles, get a no-extra-charge Winter Ready package. See your local dealer on how you can get ahead of winter.