Tips for driving and traveling safely in winter

Arabiaweather.com - Ismail Ghasmi- Whether you are traveling for business or for pleasure and spending some time in the winter, you must know how dangerous it can be to drive in this season, whether in icy, snowy or rainy conditions.

Without a doubt, knowing how things are going will help you to stay in your best condition as you solve outstanding issues instead of confusion and rushing to solve them. Here are a set of tips for driving during the winter:

- Learn about your route and how weather conditions may affect it, in addition to the weather on the day of your travel. The Internet can be a great source of current climate information, as well as radio broadcasts and hotlines.

Drink plenty of water. Although the weather is cold and may not cause potential dehydration, according to one study, losing about 2% of your body weight can lead to fatigue and a lower level of alertness, which is dangerous when driving in difficult conditions.

Eat enough food . Your body needs more food in cold weather than it does on a hot day, and you can carry a full day's worth of supplies if you are stranded for a few hours.

Pack your winter safety kit , from car tools to a tow rope and scraper for mud or ice, to blankets, a flashlight, a candle, and of course, a cellphone.

- Drive slowly , there are rules for driving during turbulent weather and limiting the speed according to the conditions, just as important, do not be too slow, as the car needs momentum to keep moving when it is on the snow, for example.

- You need to know how to handle inclines and how to brake on a slippery road. Although anyone can tell you some advice, tests have shown that drivers often misbehave in real situations.

Keep your tires in good shape and inflated, and know that cold weather reduces tire pressure, so check and reset it occasionally.

Stop to rest frequently. Winter travel is more stressful than summer, so stop and get out of the car to improve your alertness with some rest.

- If you have a complicated problem and it is very cold, it is best to stay in your car waiting for help, and make sure there is an opening that allows oxygen to enter, as you may fall asleep and suffocate, as carbon monoxide gas can accumulate inside the car.