Police share tips for bad weather driving

December is finally here and the unsafe driving conditions will be here before we know it.

The Ponca City Police Department continues its partnership with the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office and offers these tips for inclement weather that is sure to arrive soon.

PREPARE:

• Maintain your car: check battery, tire tread, wiper fluid and antifreeze.
• Have emergency equipment (jumper cable, shovel, ice scraper, blankets) in the car.
• For long trips, take food and water, medication and a cell phone.
• If stalled, stay with the car. Clear the exhaust pipe; run the engine enough to stay warm.
• Practice driving on icy or snowy surfaces in an empty lot … slowly.
• If stalled, stay with the car. Clear the exhaust pipe; run the engine enough to stay warm.
• Check your owner’s manual for braking instructions on slick surfaces.
• Don’t let the engine idle for a long time with the windows up or in an enclosed space.

PROTECT YOURSELF:

• Always buckle up and use child safety seats properly
• Never face a rear-facing infant seat in front of an air bag.
• Children 12 and under are much safer in the back seat.
• Sit back 10 inches from an air bag.

PREVENT CRASHES:

• Never mix drugs and alcohol with driving.
• Slow down and increase distances between cars in bad weather.
• Watch for pedestrians walking in the road.
• Avoid fatigue. Get plenty of rest, stop frequently, and rotate drivers if possible.

Lastly, if you have to make an unexpected drive on short notice, let someone at your destination know what time you left and the route you are taking. In case you have mechanical issues or slide off of the maintained road locating you would be easier.