At Republic, we’re dedicated to the safety of our employees, customers and the communities we serve. In fact, safety is our number one Company priority. We consider it every employee’s responsibility to take personal ownership of their safety, as well as the safety of their co-workers and the public.
With the coldest months of the year upon us in many locations across the country, it’s important to take extra precautions to stay safe this winter, including staying focused driving in winter weather. Adverse weather driving requires different techniques than driving in dry weather conditions including extra skills for acceleration, steering control and braking techniques.
Here are a few winter weather driving tips from our Safety Team for staying in control on ice and snow.
- Buckle up and don't be in a hurry. Reduce your speed according to the conditions. Reduce your speed by as much as 30% in rain, 50% in snow - and if conditions are bad, make the safe choice to not drive.
- Keep a light touch on the controls. When driving in snow and ice, smoothness is the key. Sudden moves will almost certainly result in loss of traction on slippery roads.
- Think ahead and leave room for stopping or maneuvering before the vehicle begins to respond to conditions. You need at least 8 to 10 seconds of following distance in winter conditions, and MORE if the road might be icy.
- Brake early, brake slowly, brake smoothly. If your wheels lock, you lose control, so keep 'em rolling.
- Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter black ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
- Get adequate rest. Driving in poor conditions can be fatiguing.
- Watch out for children playing in snowdrifts or sliding down hills.
- Be aware of any pedestrians wearing dark clothing when driving near crosswalks, bus stops, shopping plazas and business areas.
- Always avoid being distracted. Give your full attention to the road. Avoid using your cell phone.
It’s our goal for you to go home to your family each day. Take these precautions while you’re on the road and keep yourself safe.