HILL AIR FORCE BASE – As the winter months approach, it's essential to prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you. Utah's winter weather can be unpredictable, with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures posing a significant threat to drivers, outdoor enthusiasts, and residents alike.
Winter Car Safety
Before the winter season begins, ensure your vehicle is ready for the challenges ahead. Here are some critical checks to perform:
• Check tire tread: Ensure your tires have sufficient tread depth of at least 4 millimeters and are inflated to the recommended pressure.
• Consider winter tires: If you live in an area (Utah) with frequent snowfall, consider investing in winter tires for improved traction.
• Test your car battery: Cold temperatures can drain your battery quickly, so ensure it's in good condition.
• Check your coolant: Ensure your coolant is rated for -30°C or colder to prevent freezing.
• Switch to winter wiper blades: Winter wiper blades are designed to handle snow and ice, providing better visibility.
• Replace the cabin air filter: A dirty cabin air filter can reduce airflow and increase the
risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Winter Driving Safety
When driving in winter conditions, it's essential to adjust your behavior to reduce the risk of accidents:
• Slow down: Reduce your speed to account for lower traction and longer braking distances.
• Increase following distance: Leave five to six seconds between you and the car ahead.
• Accelerate and decelerate slowly: Apply gas gradually to regain traction and avoid skids.
• Use headlights: Turn on your headlights during the day to help other drivers see you.
• Keep a first aid kit: A first aid kit can be a lifesaver if you or someone else gets injured.
• Check the weather: Before you go out, check the weather and traffic reports, specially
if storms are possible.
Utah Traction Law
Utah's Traction Law requires drivers to have traction devices on icy or snowy roads. Here are the details:
• Two-wheel drive vehicles must have 3-peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) snow tires on all four wheels during severe winter weather conditions.
• Four-wheel drive vehicles must have M+S or M/S tires, or 3PMSF snow tires, and may also use traction devices like chains or snow socks.
• Utah's Traction Law requires drivers to have traction devices on icy or snowy roads, and the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) can restrict certain roads between October 1 and April 30.
For more information about driving on Utah’s roads, visit the Utah Highway Patrol at https://highwaypatrol.utah.gov/.