Winterizing your car: Helpful hints from the university police
To the campus community:
Indiana winters are unpredictable. Driving preparedness is an important issue that everyone should consider. The main issues to remember with winter driving are vehicle maintenance and personal safety. Before the winter season begins, you should always check your tires, wiper blades and battery to make sure that they are in good working order. Before driving you should always take the time to properly defrost your car and clear your windows.
Check your tires and make sure that you have plenty of tread to give you that all-important traction. If you are driving a rear wheel drive vehicle, consider switching to snow tires for the winter. Don’t forget to make sure that your tire pressure is correct. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can cause problems too. While you are checking your tires, take a little time and check the condition of your belts and hoses. Make sure that they are in good, working condition.
It is also a good idea to prepare an emergency kit. Pack extra clothing, blankets and lock de-icer. Be sure to carry a cell phone and a portable emergency sign in case you run into trouble.
Remember to keep a shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, flares, water and food in the trunk. Always have a full tank of gas and try to leave 10 to 15 minutes early to allow for inclement road conditions.
Finally, make sure that you keep an ice scraper in your vehicle. This is one item that many forget, and it will save you from having to borrow one. By taking these few simple steps you can ensure that you and your passengers will survive the unpredictable Indiana winters.
David Selby
Chief of Police
University of Indianapolis Police Department
