Safe winter driving in Oklahoma requires patience

BY DON GAMMILL

Published: November 23, 2008

If you think you’re an expert at driving in winter, you may be making a big mistake. When you least expect it, even in Oklahoma, where the landscape affords you a clear view of miles of roadway, you can succumb to false security and lose control.

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Whether it’s on a highway or on a city street, be aware and be prepared.

"The most common mistake Oklahomans make when trying to drive on ice and snow is not giving wintry conditions the respect they deserve and driving as if the pavement was dry,” said Chuck Mai, vice president of public affairs for AAA Oklahoma.

"Slow down, take your time, don’t stop suddenly, don’t accelerate quickly and don’t make rapid steering movements. Allow yourself enough time to get where you’re going so that you are not in a hurry.”

In other words, don’t push it. Be mindful of conditions and dangers.

"First, make sure you and your vehicle are ready for the weather,” Mai said. "Dress warmly and carry those things you’ll need in case of an emergency. ... Always keep your gas tank at least half full.

"As you’re driving, always be aware of where you are in relation to major streets or mile markers. You’ll need this information if your vehicle becomes disabled. If you do become stuck, unless you can see a place where you can safely walk and get help within a short distance, open your vehicle’s hood (this is an international signal of distress, no matter what the problem is), tie a brightly colored scarf or cloth to a traffic-side door handle, and then stay in the vehicle with your windows up and doors locked.

"Turn on your vehicle’s emergency flashers. If you have flares or orange warning triangles, place them so that oncoming traffic can see your vehicle. Use your cellular telephone — if you have one — to call your friendly auto club for help.”

Beware of deadly carbon monoxide

"Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and deadly,” Mai said.

If you are not a member of an auto club and if you don’t have a cell phone to call for help, don’t assume someone who stops to help you is not "a wolf in sheep’s clothing,” Mai warns.

"Stay in the car and open your window just an inch and ask that person to have assistance sent to you,” he said.

Carrying the right equipment might save your life. Mai recommends a cell phone with battery charging cord, a first aid kit, an auto club membership card (if you are a member), blankets, a working flashlight, booster or jumper cables, paper towels, a snow brush and an ice scraper.

It’s also a good idea to have bottled water and snack food, should you be stuck for some time.

A little forethought and preparation can save a lot of grief later.

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