#SelfiesWhileDriving: A Dangerous Phenomenon

Everywhere you look, people are taking “selfies” – from sporting events to graduation ceremonies. But the reckless act of taking a self-portrait while driving can endanger you, your passengers and others on the road.

 

The selfie fad is so new that statistics linking it to traffic accidents don’t yet exist. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation cites more than 3,300 deaths every year caused by distracted driving. Taking a selfie is a distraction from driving – reaching for your phone, opening the camera app and taking a photo. Distracted drivers are three times more likely to get into a crash, yet 80% of drivers admit to using their phone while driving.

The rise in driving hashtags

Hashtags that refer to driving tell part of the story. The following driving-related hashtags are among the most common on Twitter and Instagram – accounting for thousands of posts this year alone:

 

#Driving: 40 million+ posts

#Drivinghome: 80 thousand+ posts

#Drivingtowork: 16 thousand+ posts

#Drivingselfie: 21 thousand+ posts

#Drivingselfies: 5 thousand+ posts

Selfies while stopped are still unsafe

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Russ Rader noted that taking a selfie even while stopped at a traffic light is dangerous. “It is still distracting,” he said, “and driving requires your full attention.”

 

A common accident involving vehicles stopped at a red light or traffic sign is a rear-end collision. While you can’t control the actions of the driver behind you, taking a selfie can distract you from moving quickly enough to avoid being hit. It also can delay your response once the traffic light turns green – causing you to hit the vehicle in front of you.

 

Plus, in states that have deemed it illegal to use a cell phone while operating a vehicle, you could be ticketed.

Ad focuses on the potential selfie aftermath

Toyota’s “Don’t Shoot and Drive” campaign uses Instagram to call out the dangers of taking selfies while driving. For impact, it uses images of a totaled car edited in various Instagram filters.

 

When you’re behind the wheel and you’re holding a phone, you’re a distracted driver. And no conversation, text or selfie is worth the risk.

Tis the Season...for Theft Prevention

5 Tips to Keeps Your Belongings Safe from Holiday Theft

 

 

 

The holidays are a cheerful time, but while you’re celebrating, someone may be eyeing those new gifts. Beware of the burglars waiting to get their hands on your presents.

 

According to Nationwide claims data over the past three years, there were nearly 15,000 home thefts during the holidays and travel months of November, December and January.

Here are 5 tips to help avoid being a victim of theft over the holidays:

1. Save the status updates for later

Four out of five burglars used social networks last year to find out when people were not home.

 

Telling friends and family your holiday plans on social media may seem harmless, but that social media message can be an advertisement to burglars that says, “I’m not home.” Don’t let your social media behavior while you’re gone put your home at risk for a burglary.

2. Add home security devices to your gift list

Adding these items to your wish list can offer some extra protection:

• Sensor-triggered lighting
• Motion-activated webcams
• Smart phone home security

Also look into technology that lets you connect with your phone for 24/7 surveillance when you’re on the go.

3. Close the curtains before turning in

Open blinds may invite unwanted eyes, allowing thieves to check out the layout of your home, or view your belongings.

4. Don’t leave ladders up after decorating

Ladders can help a burglar gain access to your home. Once you’ve hung the outdoor lights, store the ladders and tools in a locked shed or garage.

5. Create categorized inventory lists

Put your gift list-making skills to good use and keep an ongoing record of items in your home. Free apps like Know Your Stuff can help you take inventory with pre-programmed categories and locations.

 

An inventory list will come in handy if you have Brand New Belongings insurance* coverage, which can help replace your insured belongings if they’re stolen or destroyed – regardless of age or condition.

*Optional feature. Exclusions and limits apply. Damaged items may be repaired in some cases. Details vary by state and policy language. Please consult your policy for the specifics of your selected coverages. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review, and approval.

Hype vs. Help: New safety features in cars

 

Advances in car technology have made it difficult to choose what add-ons you really need and which are excessive or worse yet, dangerous. We’re all for innovation, but we want to help you find out what new safety features are all hype and which ones can actually help protect you on the road. Whether you’re in the market for a new car or you’re simply curious about the newest safety features, check out our assessments of some of the most cutting-edge car technologies.

Front crash prevention

Front crash prevention includes features that both warn you when a front end collision is imminent and automatically apply the brakes to help you avoid a crash. New crash avoidance technologies, such as front crash prevention, are already reducing insurance claims from at-fault drivers. This safety feature is quickly becoming an available option in all new cars, but it can vary in effectiveness. Check the make and model of the car you’re considering on the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) safety ratings to find out if it has a superior front crash prevention system.

HELP Less “bang” for your buck.

Voice activated texting

Phone related driving accidents are responsible for a growing number of car crashes. Texting while driving is the number one offender, but taking your eyes off the road for any reason is extremely hazardous. Hands-free car technology that allows you to keep your eyes on the road may seem like an advance in car safety, but studies have shown that voice activation systems cause mental distractions that can slow down a driver’s reaction times.

HYPE Use your head. Texts can wait.

Lane departure warning

Lane departure warning technology alerts you when you’re about to veer out of your lane unless your turn signal is on. This feature has progressed recently to include Lane Keep Assist, which automatically corrects your car’s course to keep you centered on the road. It might sound like a self-driving car, but the steering wheel movements are very subtle and can be overridden at any time.

HELP What’s not to like?

Rain sensing wipers

Windshield wipers are a critically important car safety feature, but why change something that doesn’t need improving? With the flick of the wrist, windshield wipers are as easy to operate as power windows. Rain sensing wipers use infrared lights to detect if your windshield glass is dry – something the human eye can do just fine. If you aren’t able to spot when it’s raining, you probably shouldn’t be driving in the first place.

HYPE If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Touch screen controls

Similar to smart phones, touch screen car consoles also require you to take your eyes off the road to operate. Touch screen car controls can be difficult to use and some even come with highly distracting features like an integrated web browser. Limited touch screen functionality, like GPS, can be useful, but conventional knobs and buttons make it easier for you to keep your eyes on the road.

HYPE Overly complicated touch screens are distracting.

Backup cameras

Cameras that allow you to see what’s in the blind spot behind your car are useful for parking, but more importantly they can save a life. Accidents that result from backing up cause an average of 292 deaths per year. Backup cameras are especially useful on larger vehicles, such as SUVs, where the blind spot might be large enough to hide a small child from your view.

HELP Another pair of eyes can only help you see better.

Innovative Technology Aims to Detect Drowsy Driving

 

Driving drowsy is an accident waiting to happen – causing more than 100,000 auto accidents and 1,550 deaths each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 

In response, carmakers and tech companies are developing technology to detect tiredness in drivers.

 

Volvo is researching a system that uses dashboard sensors to recognize if a driver is inattentive. The sensors monitor the driver’s head position and angle, the direction of their gaze, and how open their eyes are. The data is then relayed to the car’s Lane Keeping Aid and Collision Warning with full auto brake to alert the driver.

 

Ford’s Driver Alert System, featured in its Fusion Hybrid model, uses a forward-looking camera to identify signs of driver drowsiness, such as drifting between traffic lanes, and triggers a two-stage warning system.

 

Mercedes-Benz’s ATTENTION ASSIST determines driving style by analyzing more than 70 factors in the first few minutes of a drive, including steering movements, interaction with the vehicle’s controls, and even wind and road conditions. If it all adds up to driver fatigue, ATTENTION ASSIST sounds an alert.

 

Volkswagen’s Fatigue Detection system also analyzes driving characteristics after 15 minutes of driving to calculate a fatigue estimate. If the system determines the driver may be drowsy, it shows a warning in the Multi-function Display and sounds a signal.

 

Toyota Pre-Collision System with Driver Monitor focuses on the movement of the driver’s head. It projects the possibility of a collision based on how long the driver turns their head away from the road. First, a pre-crash warning alarm sounds; if the situation persists, the system will briefly apply the brakes.

 

Tech companies are in the game, too. DriveSafe, specifically designed for Google Glass, uses an algorithm to calculate your fatigue level based on factors such as the number of times the driver blinks and the angle of the driver’s head. DriveSafe then sounds off an alert signal to grab your attention and provides nearby location options for you to pull over.

 

Researchers in the UK are testing a sensor system built into the fabric of a car seat that monitors a driver’s heart to determine focus and alertness, and signals them to pull over if drowsiness is detected.

 

These technologies may help protect drivers and passengers, but these features are all supplemental to the driver’s own judgment. It’s up to the person behind the wheel to be responsible and not drive while tired.

When Should Seniors Stop Driving - Keeping Seniors Safe on the Road

What adult children should look for and how to help. 

When is it time for a senior parent to stop driving? It’s a question many adult children don’t want to think about, but they should.

 

In 2012, there were 3,616 fatal car crashes involving older drivers, according to the most recent data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While the number of such annual incidents has decreased since 1997, more than five motorists 70 or older die for every 1,000 automotive accidents involving this age group, which is triple the rate of those age 35 to 54, the IIHS reports.

 

“When to stop driving is one of the most difficult conversations you can have with an older parent,” says Bill Windsor, Associate Vice President of Consumer Safety for Nationwide. “From your parents’ perspective, driving represents the gateway to their independence, a way to maintain control over their lives. But there are trouble signs that could increase the risk of a crash.”

 

Here’s a guide for adult children of seniors with respect to potential red flags, suggestions for adjustments and tips for having a difficult discussion about not driving any longer:

 

Cautionary observation. Diminished motor function, reaction times and cognitive abilities can all impact driving. Watch to see if the senior parent in question struggles to look over his or her shoulder to change lanes, or turn from left to right at intersections to check for pedestrians, suggests Helpguide.org, a site which specializes in mental health guidance and related topics.

 

“You can make assessments based upon talks with your parent’s friends, or your own observations,” Windsor says. “Are they having trouble with the basics? Are they getting lost frequently, or having near crashes?”

 

Expert opinion. Regular medical checkups are key – for vision, hearing, mental alertness and even whether the senior parent is getting enough sleep. “This checkup should include an exchange with the doctor about how your parent’s condition is impacting his or her ability to drive safely,” Windsor says, “as well as if there are any prescriptions being taken that are causing problems.”

 

Back to school. There are many ways to extend longevity for fitness for the road. Daily exercise will improve strength, flexibility, conditioning and mental focus of older drivers. “A parent can also take a defensive driving course to sharpen skills,” Windsor says. “In the process, he or she could earn a discount on insurance premiums.”

 

When it’s time to talk … Here are some takeaways from Windsor and Helpguide about how to approach an elderly parent with concerns, including the possibility of giving up the keys:

• Be respectful. You won’t get anywhere with a confrontational manner or lots of accusations. To avoid backing your parent into a defensive corner, approach him or her with empathy. “Put yourself in their shoes by understanding how trying this kind of transition can be,” Windsor says. “In a non-critical way, provide factual examples of what you and others have seen.”

 

• Enlist a detached professional party. If a driving specialist or the family doctor takes part in the conversation, the parent may respond more positively, as opposed to dismissively perceiving urgings from a family member as “nagging.”

 

• Ease in with a transition. Instead of asking a parent to go “cold turkey,” you might suggest little adjustments at first, such as not driving at night or on busy freeways.

 

• Have a plan. If you feel a parent really should stop driving, it’s best to offer alternatives for getting around so he or she won’t feel “trapped” and housebound. Options include public transportation, ride sharing, community shuttles, senior transit, taxis and walking. “Collect lots of information and come up with a viable action plan,” Windsor says.

•  

Pool Safety Tips

There's no better place to be than in the pool when you're trying to beat the heat. Pools provide great relaxation, exercise, and fun, but they can also be very dangerous, especially for children. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children. Check out these tips to make sure that your pool stays a safe and fun place.

 

1.      Be Prepared. Everyone who is using your pool, including you and your children, should learn how to swim. You should also learn how to perform CPR on both adults and children. Teach your children pool safety tips from a young age, and remind them to follow pool rules whenever they go swimming.

 

2.      Be Alert. There should always be at least one adult watching the children in the pool at all times. This responsible adult should have a phone nearby in case of emergency. Never allow anyone to swim alone, even if they know how to swim. Never swim after taking anything that impairs your judgment or slows your reaction time, such as alcohol or medications.

 

3.      Install Fences and Gates. The fence around your pool should be at least four feet tall. A safe pool gate is both self-latching and self-closing. The latch on the gate should be located above a child's reach. You can also install pool and gate alarms to alert you when anyone goes near the water.

 

The fence around your pool should be at least four feet tall. A safe pool gate is both self-latching and self-closing. The latch on the gate should be located above a child's reach.

 

4.      Pay Attention to Decks and Ladders. The same basic safety rules apply to all types of pools, but above-ground pools also have decks and ladders. Put a guard rail around the entire deck. Ladders into the pool should be easily removable, or swing up out of the reach of children, and securely stored when the pool is not in use.

 

5.      Keep Your Pool Area Safe. Try to locate pools away from the house, instead of using it as a fourth wall. Locate lawn furniture, trees, and shrubs at a safe distance from the pool fence. These items present a hazardous way to climb over the fence and into the pool area. If you have an in-ground pool, put a clearly visible dividing line between the shallow end and the deep end. Visibly mark the depth of the water throughout the pool. Children might accidently fall into the water reaching for toys, so make sure that they are stored safely away from the pool.

 

6.      Perform Safety Checks and Pool Maintenance. Check your pool and equipment routinely to be certain that it is clean and working properly. Loose or unsecured ladders, fences, or guard rails could be very dangerous, so make sure to test these areas frequently for sturdiness and stability. Inspect nails, bolts, and other sharp objects that could protrude from your pool, deck, or equipment and cause injury.

 

7.      Be Aware of Entrapment. A major cause of drowning accidents is drain entrapment. Drain entrapment is when a body, article of clothing, hair, or jewelry is caught in a drain that is not working properly. The best way to prevent entrapment is to advise children to stay away from drains. Everybody going into the pool should have no loose clothing or jewelry on and have long hair tied back. Consider installing automatic shut-off systems and verify that your drain covers are compliant with safety standards.

 

8.      Know what to do if an Accident Happens. The electrical cut-off switch and pool pump switch should be clearly marked and easy to reach. You should know how to shut these switches off quickly if an emergency were to occur. In the event of an entrapment, insert a small object in between the person and the drain to break the suction, and then roll them away from the drain. It would be nearly impossible to pull a person away from the drain without breaking the suction first. Accidents happen even at the safest pools, so have a first aid kit nearby at all times.

Summer Safety Tips for Kids

The final school bell has rung, the pencils and notebooks are packed away and the kids are ready for some summer fun! Children love the hot summer months, because they provide the perfect opportunity to spend lots of time outside. Whether it’s swimming in the pool, hiking through the woods, taking long walks, or going for a bike ride, there is something for everyone, no matter how young or old.

 

We hope that everyone enjoys this special time of year, but we want to also remind parents that there are potential dangers during the summer months, and it’s important to be aware of what they are. The more information one learns about how to prevent illnesses and injuries, the less likely they will occur.

 

There are many areas to cover when it comes to summer safety, and we’ll review just a few here. Please keep in mind that this is a brief list of tips. For more information check out the web sites recommended at the end of this article.

Tick Bites

Ticks are responsible for a variety of illnesses including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. These diseases can be very serious. Learn ways to protect your family. Some suggestions include:

• protective clothing (long sleeves, long pants, tucking pants into socks)
• tick/bug repellant
• insect repellant for pets
• staying in the center of paths, keeping away from overgrown areas and not sitting directly on the ground
• performing tick checks on all family members every day
• being aware of signs/symptoms of tick-related illnesses
• calling the doctor for any concerns and questions
  
  

Helmet Safety

• An appropriate helmet must be worn whenever a child is “on wheels.” This means bicycles, scooters, skates, rollerblades, skateboards and more!
• The helmet must fit properly.
• Helmets can be life saving and can protect a child from serious injury.
• Be sure the right type of helmet is being used. For example, a bike helmet needs to be used for biking.
• Moms and dads should wear helmets as well.
  
  

Pedestrian Safety

• Teach children to walk, not run, across the street.
• Children should cross only with an adult or an older, responsible child.
• Whenever crossing the street, try to make eye contact with any drivers nearby, to be sure they see you.
• Teach children to avoid running out from between parked cars.
• Use sidewalks whenever possible.
• Always hold your child’s hand near any moving or parked vehicles.
• Adults always need to set a good example!
  
  

Water Safety

Adult supervision is of paramount importance. Parents need to focus on their children 100% of the time. No distractions!


• Practice “touch supervision” (a term used by the American Academy of Pediatrics). This means that at all times, the supervising adult is within an arm’s length of the child being watched, when near or in the water.
• Remember, no child or adult is “drown proof.”
• Keep in mind that children can drown in many different water sources including: bathtubs, toilets, buckets, baby pools, backyard swimming pools, community pools, streams, creeks, lakes, rivers, oceans and other places.

Sun Protection

• Avoid sun exposure during peak sun hours (10 AM – 6 PM).
• Wear protective clothing and a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses (with 99-100% UV protection).
• Sunscreen is a must (on sunny and cloudy days)! Look for products with UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of at least 15 (according to the American Academy of Pediatrics and American Association of Dermatology).
• Sunscreen should be applied liberally 30 minutes before going out in the sun, and reapplied every two hours or sooner if swimming, sweating or toweling off.
• Look for shade whenever possible.
  
  

Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac

• It’s the oil from the leaves of these plants that cause the potential allergic reaction.
• Consider wearing protective clothing to help decrease the amount of exposed skin.
• Learn how to recognize what poison ivy, oak and sumac look like, so that they can be avoided.
• Avoid bushy, overgrown areas and places which may contain these plants. Try to stay on paths.

Summer First Aid Kit

• Every family should have at least one first aid kit at home which is well stocked and readily accessible.
• It’s also helpful to keep a first aid kit in the car and one to bring on trips.
• Kids get lots of cuts and scrapes during the warm summer months, so it’s nice to be prepared.
• Don’t forget to restock the kit once an item has been used.
• Be sure to keep a list of emergency numbers where they are easy to find. This list should include: emergency medical services (911), the doctor’s number, the dentist’s number, poison control, a number where mom and/or dad can be reached and any other important phone numbers.

Dehydration and Heat-Related Illnesses

• Keeping well hydrated is very important.
• Children (and adults) must remember to drink.
• Do not wait until a child says he is thirsty before offering fluids. At this point, he is already dehydrated, so be sure to provide plenty of fluids before going outside, while out in the heat and afterwards.
• Playing in the hot summer sun means lots of fluid losses, so avoid strenuous activity during peak sun hours (10 am- 6 pm). Look for shade and take lots of breaks.
• Seek medical attention immediately for any signs of heat-related illness.

Grilling

• Never let children near the grill. Remember, it can remain very hot even after it is no longer being used.
• Be sure to check the internal temperature of foods on the grill, to be sure everything has been cooked appropriately.
• If picnicking outdoors, avoid leaving out foods that require refrigeration and/or foods that can quickly spoil.

Enjoy longer days and warmer nights while protecting your investment

Summertime is the best time to be outside enjoying the weather. Make sure your deck or patio is ready for the summer sun by keeping in mind the seasonal maintenance tips below.

• Check deck or patio for possible deterioration and safety hazards such as loose boards and protruding nails.
• Check electrical outlets for potential fire hazards such as frayed wires or loose-fitting plugs. Be sure not to overload electrical outlets, fuse boxes, extension cords or any other power service.
• Check all window and door locks to ensure correct functioning. Make sure all locks are secure and there are no holes in any of the screens.
• Inspect recreational equipment for proper operation and possible dangers (e.g., Are swing sets secure, and do they contain any rusty bolts?).
• Carefully inspect your toilet. Look for the erosion of plastic floater valves, and check all pipe connections.
• Clean or replace your furnace filter.
• Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct and space under the dryer. Remove all lint, dust and pieces of material.
• Inspect washing machine hoses periodically, and replace hoses that show signs of wear or leakage.
• Have your roof inspected by a professional once every few years to identify areas of potential leakage.

Home Fire Prevention and Safety

 

If the smoke alarm goes off in your home, do you and your family have a fire escape plan?

 

In 2011, fire departments responded to 370,000 home fires – and while not all home fires are preventable, creating a fire-prevention plan can reduce the risk of fire in your home. Check out the home fire prevention tips below to keep your home and family safe.

 

Here’s a summary of the 10 tips – have you checked them off in your home?

1. Sweep the chimney – Do this yearly to prevent the buildup of flammable creosote.
 
2. Smoke detectors – Place a smoke detector on every floor, and in or near every bedroom. Make sure to test the batteries regularly and change every six months.
 
3. Fire escapes – Keep roll-out ladders near each window above the first floor for a safe escape in case of fire.
 
4. Space heaters – Place space heaters at least 3 feet away from other objects.
 
5. Safe – Protect irreplaceable items and important documents in a safe that has an Underwriters Laboratory Rating of 125 or above.
 
6. Electrical outlets – Use one surge protector per wall outlet to protect your electrical system and electronics.
 
7. Candles – Rather than burning real candles, try battery-operated ones instead. If you do burn real candles, never leave them unattended.
 
8. Stove – Don’t leave a hot stove while cooking. Stay in the kitchen, and avoid trying to multitask while cooking a meal.
 
9. Fire extinguisher – Keep a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen, and replace it as often as the manufacturer recommends.
 
10. Fire Drills – Run practice fire drills with your family to ensure that everyone knows which exits to use in case of an emergency.

Keep your family and property safe by having a fire escape plan, and avoiding common fire hazards. And pass this graphic along to friends and family so they can do the same.

Nationwide Insurance is Proud to Sponsor “Maria’s Message” to Help End Distracted Driving

 

If you live in Central Ohio, you probably know the name Dom Tiberi.

 

As weekday sports anchor of WBNS-10TV News and co-host of the weekend Wall-to-Wall Sports, Dom delivers the news on the OSU Buckeyes, Columbus Blue Jackets and local high school sports.

 

Central Ohioans have a deep and personal connection to Dom. So, in September 2013, when his daughter, Maria, was killed in a distracted driving-related car accident, the community felt his pain and loss.

 

Now, Dom has turned tragedy into opportunity.

 

In February, the Tiberi family and WBNS launched “Maria’s Message,” a public service campaign to help stop distracted driving and prevent other families from suffering the heartbreak the Tiberis endured.

 

Nationwide Insurance is a proud sponsor of “Maria’s Message” and shares Dom’s efforts to end all types of distracted driving.

 

Together, we can honor Maria’s spirit by doing everything we can to make our roads safer and prevent distracted-driving accidents.

3 Way Parents Can Discourage Texting While Driving

 

We’ve mentioned in past blog posts that according to the National Safety Council an estimated 25% of car accidents are caused by cell phone distractions. And that number is likely higher among younger, inexperienced drivers whose cell phones are practically an extra appendage. Here are a few simple things you can do as a parent to encourage your teen to put down the phone and drive.

 

1. Lead by example

 

You may not realize it, but while your teen is learning to drive, he or she is paying close attention to your driving habits. For your safety as well as to set a good example, make a point of never using your phone behind the wheel. This shows your teen that ignoring the phone while driving isn’t a punishment for inexperienced drivers: It’s a precaution everyone should take, like buckling a seatbelt.

 

2. Talk to your kids

 

Don’t rely on your teen to notice that you’re not using your phone behind the wheel. Take a few minutes to explain the dangers of texting while driving. Use the information on this infographic, from the National Safety Council, and be sure to remind them that it’s OK to take an emergency call or text in the car – just pull over first.

 

3. Explore high-tech solutions

 

There are several smartphone apps that can reduce the temptation of picking up the phone while driving. Most of these apps work by limiting the functionality of the phone when the car exceeds about 25 mph. Research a few options on the smartphone platform your teen uses; if your son or daughter doesn’t have a smartphone, encourage them to get into the habit of turning their phone off before getting behind the wheel. As a parent, there’s a lot you can do to influence your teen’s driving behavior. Making sure your teen understands the dangers of texting while driving can go a long way toward keeping you your son or daughter safe.

8 Helpful Safety Tips for Driving in a Snowstorm

 

The first winter storm of the year brought heavy snow, strong winds and record-low temperatures to much of the country. Icy roads were blamed for several deaths and numerous car accidents. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) estimates 168,300 crashes a year occur on snowy or icy pavement. If you absolutely must drive, follow these tips for driving in the snow.

 

1. Maintain a safe following distance

 

Ensure there are 3 seconds between your car and the vehicle in front of you to give yourself enough time to stop safely and avoid a collision. In slick or icy conditions, double the 3-second rule to 6 seconds.

 

2. Clear snow

 

If you’re can’t see out all vehicle windows, you can’t drive safely. Remove snow and ice from all windows and side mirrors.

 

3. De-ice your windshield

 

Keep your windshield washer tank full at all times. Be sure wiper blades are in good condition.

4. Learn how to control a skid

 

In a skid, help gain control by steering in the direction you want your vehicle to go.

 

5. Avoid using cruise control

 

You need to be alert and in control at all times, so save cruise control for normal road conditions.

 

6. Reduce your speed

 

Slow down. It can take much longer to stop in snowy or icy conditions.

 

7. Use your anti-lock brakes (ABS) properly

 

ABS brakes can be effective. Just maintain firm, constant pressure. Your vehicle owners’ manual explains how they work and how they should be used in inclement conditions.

 

8. Install snow tires

 

Compared to all-weather tires, snow or winter tires have tread designed to maintain a better grip on icy and snowy surfaces. Experts recommend installing winter tires on all 4 wheels.

 

For added peace of mind, create an emergency car kit using our list of winter driving gear. Driving in snow increases the chances of an accident, so prepare yourself by remembering these safety tips when you get on the road.

12 Must-Have Winter Emergency Car Kit Items

A snow-covered landscape may be a beautiful sight, but icy roads, strong winds and snowdrifts can make winter driving treacherous. It’s wise to have an emergency kit in your car in case it gets stuck or breaks down. Here are some items it should contain:

 

 

1. Ice scraper or snow brush

 

Poor visibility can make driving dangerous. Remove ice and snow from your all your windows.

 

2. Windshield washer fluid

 

Since you may use more windshield washer fluid on snowy and icy days, keep your fluid reservoir full and carry an extra jug of winter-rated fluid in your trunk.

 

3. Foldable shovel

 

Stuck in the snow? It’s smart to keep a small shovel in your trunk to help dig your wheels out.

 

4. Sand, salt, or cat litter

 

Keep a bag of sand or cat litter in your trunk. Throw several handfuls under spinning tires for better traction on snow or ice.

 

5. Jumper cables

 

Car batteries take a beating in the winter, so carry jumper cables. Be sure to read directions about how to connect them to a working vehicle.

 

6. Flares or reflective triangles

 

You want to be seen if your car breaks down or is stuck. Emergency flashing lights, flares and reflective triangles can alert oncoming traffic of your plight.

 

7. Flashlight and batteries

 

Always carry a flashlight and fresh batteries. It helps you to see and be seen by other drivers.

 

8. Tow rope

 

A tow rope of proper strength can be used to pull your vehicle out by another. Check your car’s owners manual for how and where to attach the rope and how to proceed.

 

9. Cell phone and charger

 

Be sure your cell phone is fully charged or you have a phone charger in your car. Or consider having a backup phone to contact a towing service or emergency personnel.

 

10. First-aid kit

 

A first-aid kit can save your life in an emergency. Consider purchasing a pre-stocked kit or make sure your DIY version contains bandages, antibiotic ointment, gauze pads, antiseptic, scissors, thermometer, safety pins, tweezers and hand sanitizer.

 

11. Blankets and hand warmers

 

Keep a warm blanket, sleeping bag or metallic “space blanket” in your car to help retain body heat and keep you warm if you’re stranded. Hand warmers and an extra pair of gloves are smart ideas, as well.

 

12. Bottled water

 

A person can live for days without food, but our bodies need water. Avoid dehydration by stashing several bottles of water in your trunk.

 

If you live where snowfall is common, a winter emergency car kit is essential, but take precautions to avoid getting into an emergency situation. Have your mechanic give your car a bumper-to-bumper once-over to ensure it’s ready for winter driving.

Winter Driving Tips

Severe weather can be both frightening and dangerous for automobile travel. Motorists should know the safety rules for dealing with winter road emergencies. AAA reminds motorists to be cautious while driving in adverse weather. For more information on winter driving, the association offers the How to Go on Ice and Snow brochure, available through most AAA offices. Contact your local AAA club for more information.

 

AAA recommends the following winter driving tips:

 

Avoid driving while you’re fatigued. Getting the proper amount of rest before taking on winter weather tasks reduces driving risks.

Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.

Make certain your tires are properly inflated.

Never mix radial tires with other tire types.

Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up.

If possible, avoid using your parking brake in cold, rainy and snowy weather.

Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand).

Always look and steer where you want to go.

Use your seat belt every time you get into your vehicle.

 

Tips for long-distance winter trips:

• Watch weather reports prior to a long-distance drive or before driving in isolated areas. Delay trips when especially bad weather is expected. If you must leave, let others know your route, destination and estimated time of arrival.
• Always make sure your vehicle is in peak operating condition by having it inspected by a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility.
• Keep at least half a tank of gasoline in your vehicle at all times.
• Pack a cellular telephone with your local AAA’s telephone number, plus blankets, gloves, hats, food, water and any needed medication in your vehicle.
• If you become snow-bound, stay with your vehicle. It provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. Don’t try to walk in a severe storm. It’s easy to lose sight of your vehicle in blowing snow and become lost.
• Don’t over exert yourself if you try to push or dig your vehicle out of the snow.
• Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or place a cloth at the top of a rolled up window to signal distress. At night, keep the dome light on if possible. It only uses a small amount of electricity and will make it easier for rescuers to find you.
• Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow, ice or mud. A blocked exhaust could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment with the engine running.
• Use whatever is available to insulate your body from the cold. This could include floor mats, newspapers or paper maps.
• If possible run the engine and heater just long enough to remove the chill and to conserve gasoline.

Tips for driving in the snow:

• Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids. Don’t try to get moving in a hurry. And take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember: It takes longer to slow down on icy roads.
• Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Accelerating, stopping, turning – nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement. Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly.
• The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds. This increased margin of safety will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop.
• Know your brakes. Whether you have antilock brakes or not, the best way to stop is threshold breaking. Keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
• Don’t stop if you can avoid it. There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it.
• Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads just starts your wheels spinning. Try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed down hill as slowly as possible.
• Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road. Get some inertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.
• Stay home. If you really don’t have to go out, don’t. Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone else can. Don’t tempt fate: If you don’t have somewhere you have to be, watch the snow from indoors.

11 Travel Tips for Thanksgiving

With winter weather, freezing temperatures and rain forecasted for much of the country and more than 43 million Americans expected to be on the roads this week, the American Red Cross offers tips to help Thanksgiving travelers arrive safely at their destination:

AUTOMOBILES

 

1. Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels before you get on the road. Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.

 

2. If winter weather is present, bring pets/companion animals inside before you leave the house.

 

3. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order. Fill your gas tank, check the air pressure in your tires and make sure you have windshield fluid.

 

4. Buckle up, slow down, don’t drink and drive, or text and drive.

 

5. Make frequent stops on long trips. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and rest.

 

6. If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible.

PLANES & TRAINS

 

1. It’s flu season. If you’ve been sick or been in contact with someone who is sick, consider postponing your trip. You could be contagious for a week before symptoms appear.

 

2. Remember that everything you touch has to be touched by someone else – luggage handlers, etc. Handle your own belongings as much as possible. Wash your hands often with soap and water.

 

3. Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you. You can use them to wash your hands or wipe down surfaces such as armrests.

 

4. Bring your own pillows and blankets – they can act as a shield against the seat itself.

 

5. Avoid touching your face or eyes. If you have to cough or sneeze, do so into a tissue or your sleeve.

 

BONUS TIP

Download the American Red Cross First Aid App. The app provides users with quick, expert advice on what to do in case of an emergency. This free app is available on the Apple iTunes or Google Play stores. See all Red Cross apps at redcross.org/mobileapps.

SMOKE ALARM SAFETY TIPS

               

Smoke alarms save lives. Almost two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to get out.

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. Interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• An ionization smoke alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires, and a photoelectric smoke alarm is generally more responsive to smoldering fires. For the best protection, both types of alarms or a combination alarm (photoelectric and ionization) should be installed in homes.
• Test alarms at least monthly by pushing the test button.
• Smoke rises; install smoke alarms following manufacturer's instructions high on a wall or on a ceiling. Save manufacturer's instructions for testing and maintenance.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps”, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms, including alarms that use 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms, when they are 10 year old or sooner if they do not respond properly.
• Be sure the smoke alarm has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Alarms that are hard-wired (and include battery backup) must be installed by a qualified electrician.
• If cooking fumes or steam sets off nuisance alarms, replace the alarm with an alarm that has a "hush" button. A "hush" button will reduce the alarm’s sensitivity for a short period of time.
• An ionization alarm with a hush button or a photoelectric alarm should be used if the alarm is within 20 feet of a cooking appliance.
• Smoke alarms that include a recordable voice announcement in addition to the usual alarm sound, may be helpful in waking children through the use of a familiar voice.
• Smoke alarms are available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. These devices use strobe lights. Vibration devices can be added to these alarms
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

Download these NFPA safety tips on smoke alarms (PDF, 219 KB).