In the event you find yourself stranded on the highway or a secondary road this winter, Michelin offers the following tips:
• Move your vehicle as far off the road as possible to avoid being hit
• Turn on your hazard lights to attract help
• Keep additional clothing in your vehicle and put it on to keep warm
• Use a cellular phone to call for help
• Do not drift away from the car and run the engine periodically, but not continuously
• Move your arms and legs to improve your circulation and to keep warm
• Consider the outside temperature and wind chill before leaving your vehicle
The most important tip to remember is not to run your engine continuously, especially if snow is accumulating rapidly. Internal combustion engines produce exhaust fumes known as carbon monoxide – a colourless, odourless gas that, if inhaled in sufficient quantities, can cause drowsiness, unconsciousness, coma and even death. If snow accumulates and blocks your exhaust pipe, you are at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Take the time to have your vehicle checked before venturing out on the roads this winter because a little preparation and prevention can go a long way. Just as you never expect to get stranded, you can never tell what old man winter will have in store.
