Traveling during winter can be stressful, especially if you’re in the great state of Maine. Mainers know that severe snowstorms, icy roads, frozen vehicles, hazardous traffic patterns, and much more all are unfortunate parts of the season. Our staff at Wiscasset Ford, your local Ford dealer in Maine, wants you to be safe and still be able to enjoy the drive. That is why we have compiled a list of smart tips to guide you on your journeys and help you feel confident about staying safe out on the road. They include:
– Never drive when you are tired. Make sure you are well-rested and alert whenever you get behind the wheel this winter.
– If you find yourself driving in snow, be sure you are slowly accelerating and decelerating as much as possible. This will help maximize the amount of traction that your wheels have and prevent possible skidding or even fishtailing. You should also stop and turn as slowly as you can.
– Inflate your tires to their proper levels. Sudden and intense drops in temperature can lead to fluctuating levels of pressure. Too much air will decrease the traction of your tires, but not having enough air in them will reduce how effective they will be as you drive.
– You can stop your gas line from freezing by keeping the tank of your Ford car, truck, or SUV at least halfway full at all times.
– Do not use the cruise control feature of your vehicle on if you traveling in slick conditions like black ice or freezing rain.
– Make sure you are up-to-date with current reports of the weather. While the skies may be clear near your home, this may not be the case at your destination. Use a smart device or check your local news to find out the safest time to drive.
– Bring your Ford model to the expert service center at Wiscasset Ford, your local Maine Ford dealer, for maintenance and a check-up before you head out on your journey.
– Know how much stopping power your brakes have and stand by to immediately use them. When driving in snow, slowing your Ford as best as you can is a better choice than fully stopping.
– When you encounter a steep incline, do not attempt to use extra power during your drive. Instead, let your natural momentum push you to the very top and then slowly reduce the power of your engine.
– Carry an emergency kit with you that contains clothes, food, water, blankets, flashlights, etc. This will be of great value if you ever find yourself stranded or stuck on the road.
– If the worst does happen and you end up getting caught in a severe snowstorm, do not abandon your Ford model. The visibility in a snowstorm is extremely low, and the temperature can be frigid. Instead, remain in your vehicle until the storm ends or until help comes.
– Find a colorful piece of fabric to place on your vehicle so that first responders can locate you quickly.
– Only use your engine to stay warm and save power. Also, it is important to keep your exhaust pipe clear of any snow or other debris.
The best piece of advice that our expert staff at Wiscasset Ford, your local Ford dealer in Maine, can give you is to not drive in any winter storms if you can help it. Staying inside and warm is always a better alternative to becoming stuck on an icy highway. Your local Ford dealer in Maine hopes that these tips help keep you remain safe this snowy winter season. Remember, safety comes first out on the road.
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