10 Step Guide for Safe Winter Hauling
Driving in hazardous winter conditions is, at times a fact of life. Try as we may to check the weather reports or postpone for better weather; you can still find yourself in less than desirable weather conditions. It’s always better to be over than under-prepared. Here is a 10 easy step Safe Winter Hauling Guide to help get your mind and vehicles ready for winter driving.
1) When in doubt, slow down, and keep a safe distance between you and other vehicles -This brings us to breaking – The Engine brake is not designed for slippery conditions. Try not to use the Engine Break on icy roads unless the entire unit is straight on the road. You don’t want the trailer to slide and spin you off course.
2) Know what your equipment can handle and take caution with heavy trailer loads.
3) Carry cat litter. Yes, it can be used as traction in an emergency. It can also be put in a tied-off sock on the dashboard to suck up added moisture and help prevent condensation on your windshield (if needed).
4) Keep air tanks from freezing, check under your truck and carry a hammer and putty knife just in case. Always drain your air tanks when you are finished for the day. This may be the most important item a driver can perform in terms of preventative maintenance. Brake systems, Emission systems, Transmission shifting, and numerous other components use system air to operate. You cannot have moisture in your tanks in cold weather.
5) Check your trailer tires often.
6) Inspect your trailer or get a mechanic to help.
7) Keeping fuel tanks topped up can give you extra weight over the drive tires, which could give you more traction.
8) Try not to stop on the shoulder when possible. When trucks stop on the shoulder in bad weather conditions, they risk being a hazard to someone else.
9) Keep your lights clean and windows/ windshields clean, warm, and defrosted.
10) Be sure to take proper winter clothes, extra gloves, toques, snow pants, jacket, ETC. Pack an emergency kit containing a wind-up torch, a warning triangle, as well as hot pockets in case of a major problem or time without power, a blanket, and anything else you think would be useful.
We want all our drivers to come home safe after work. Please practice caution in all weather conditions. Remember when in doubt, stay home! No job is worth your health and safety. Know that we are here to help and service you every step of the way.