The Federal Highway Administration confirms that driving conditions worsen when weather conditions become poor.
Thus, people need to prepare themselves for road conditions and the ones that affect them at home.
From 2019 to the present, the population has experienced several life-changing events. It started with the economic shutdowns and has progressed to an Arctic storm sweeping across the country.
Therefore, most people have learned how to prepare for extreme conditions.
Nonetheless, it doesn’t hurt to go over how to remain prepared for poor weather situations.
What Are Poor Weather Conditions?
Poor weather conditions occur when the temperature becomes extreme for short periods or weather brings rain, snow, hail, and icy conditions for extended periods.
Several parts of the country experience the four seasons, including winters that bring snow, ice, rain, and hail. However, as the winter of 2022/3 has shown, it can sometimes bring extra and extended cold.
Since weather conditions increase the threat of vehicle accidents, remember that personal injury professionals remain at your disposal (like this one).
Let’s look at how to prepare yourself for poor weather conditions, especially if you need to drive.
For Commuting
Some individuals must continue driving to commute, run errands, or care for loved ones. Therefore, during poor weather situations, follow the next tips.
Schedule Car Maintenance
Drivers must stay on top of their vehicle’s health. Therefore, when the local news starts talking about the expectation of incoming poor weather conditions, schedule a car maintenance appointment.
Vehicle maintenance professionals will:
- Test the brakes
- Check the fluids
- Assess the tires
- Test the engines
- Make recommendations according to the weather
Maintenance keeps vehicles in good driving condition throughout the year regardless of the weather conditions.
Drivers who live in areas that receive snow or ice benefit from speaking with mechanics to learn how to place chains on tires or drive on particularly icy roads.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Going outdoors in poor weather conditions requires wearing the appropriate clothing. Thus, before the weather arrives, go shopping.
Some items that individuals need include:
- Waterproof shoes
- Weatherproof jacket
- Long john undergarments
- Gloves
- Warm pants and sweater
Although individuals might get wet, the appropriate clothes keep them warm for extended periods, especially if conditions stop traffic.
Pack an Extra Outfit
While shopping for appropriate clothing, pick up an extra outfit and pack it in the vehicle.
In 2023, it heavily snowed in San Bernardino, California, for the first time since 1949. Therefore, if it could snow in this area, it can snow anywhere.
Packing an extra outfit gives drivers peace of mind if a sudden downpour occurs or highway patrol stops traffic.
Invest in an Emergency Kit
Lastly, invest in an emergency kit. Drivers should already carry emergency kits with flashlights, water, and emergency tires in their trunks.
It also helps to pack:
- Batteries
- Snacks
- First aid kits
- Tire chains
- Umbrella
- Tools for changing tires
- Blanket
- Smartphone accessories, such as portable chargers and Wifi hotspots
The goal is to pack items that help drivers overcome stopped traffic that lasts a few hours or overnight.
For the Home
Several San Bernardino residents experienced snowed-in conditions for several days. Thus, when poor weather conditions could arrive, preparing the home is critical.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance
Start by scheduling HVAC maintenance to ensure the heating or cooling system will operate as expected, especially for extended periods.
Individuals remain safer indoors and in their homes during extreme cold and hot conditions. Therefore, ensure that it’s possible to adjust the indoor temperatures.
HVAC systems require maintenance twice annually. It helps them stay close to the manufacturer’s recommendations and expands their life expectancy, saving money and headaches in the long run.
Inspect the Home’s Exterior
Next, schedule an appointment with professionals to inspect the home’s exterior.
Extended rain can cause weak roofs to finally collapse, while faulty windows will let in the cold or hot air indoors.
Strong winds can also wreak havoc on a home’s exterior. Therefore, assess the home’s exterior and make plans accordingly.
Stock Up on Supplies and Daily Essentials
Finally, stock up on supplies and daily essentials before the weather takes a turn for the worst.
Moreover, getting ahead of the crowds who will also shop for the same items is a good idea.
People have shown that they tend to panic at the last minute. Therefore, avoid the chaos and plan.
Conclusion
Even areas that don’t usually see traditional winter conditions saw them in winter 2022/3. Therefore, individuals benefit from preparing for them, just in case. Preparation includes scheduling maintenance appointments, investing in gear, and stocking supplies.
