Most workers commute to their jobs via cars, and some have the privilege of driving company-owned vehicles. It’s important to adjust your driving practices based on the season so that you can reduce the safety hazards that winter driving can cause.
The holiday season is the busiest time of the year for long-distance travel. Planes are overbooked and highways are overcrowded, which can add stress to the season. Be sure to plan ahead for travel during the holiday season, to ensure a safe holiday.
Tips for Safe Driving in Winter Conditions
- Drive on slippery roads at a reduced speed and increase the following distance between you and the vehicle ahead—this gives you an additional cushion of space for safe stopping.
- Look out for areas that might induce skidding, such as unexpected ice patches or piles of wet leaves. Keep in mind that wet ice, warmed by the sun, is twice as dangerous as completely frozen ice. Be especially alert whenever there is any kind of precipitation during cold weather.
- When you drive into deep snow, stepping on the gas may cause the wheels to spin, with little forward movement. In such cases, avoid over accelerating.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Driving
These tips can help prepare you for treacherous winter driving conditions:
- Do a full maintenance check on your vehicle in the fall, including the battery, ignition, lights, brakes, tires, the exhaust and heating/cooling system.
- Consider putting winter tires on your vehicle as they will provide traction in snowy and icy conditions.
- Keep a fully stocked first-aid kit handy—supplies such as a blanket, extra clothing, emergency food and water, matches, etc.
Holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s bring to mind thoughts of family, friends, fun and food. However, each year, millions of Americans struggle to maintain their waistlines during the holidays while surrounded by tempting holiday treats.
Holiday Parties
By following the healthy tips below, you will be on your way to enjoying all your holiday parties, while also staying in control of your eating. For example:
- Do not leave the house on an empty stomach—it promotes overeating.
- Avoid standing near the food table, a sure-fire way to overindulge.
- Make socializing your top priority; conversation will keep you occupied and away from the food.
- Limit your drinking; alcohol increases hunger and lowers willpower.
- Offer a low-calorie alternative; for example, if you have volunteered to bring a dessert, bring fruit rather than a cheesecake.
With these safety tips in mind, we hope you have a safe and happy holiday season!