Tag Archives: winter driving

Au Pair Meeting at Bowling Alley

Last week, our au pair group met for flatbread pizza and bowling at Sacco’s Bowl Haven in Davis Square, Somerville.   We had a few new arrivals: Magda, Estelle, Bee and Asia, who were formally introduced to the group.  They enjoyed meeting and connecting with our more seasoned au pairs.

The flatbread pizza was amazing, and we shared many laughs while candlepin bowling.  Again, it was nice to observe the comraderie among a group of young women who are going through the same experience.

During dinner, I handed out information about winter driving which we discussed.    The most important job of an au pair is to keep the children and herself safe.  That is why we have these quarterly discussions regarding safety.   I encouraged au pairs to go home and talk with their host families about the handout.

For more photos of our bowling adventure go to Bowling.

Winter Driving Tips

You are likely to find ice and snow on the roads in New England this time of the year. There are some basic rules to remember to stay safe in the car in difficult driving conditions:

  • Start early and take your time.
  • Accelerate slowly, especially on hills
  • Drive slowly to avoid having to stop while going up a hill, as it will be hard to start again.
  • Don’t make any sudden turns or stops.
  • Be sure that the mirrors and windows are always free of snow and ice.
  • If you skid, try to steer in the direction the car is sliding to regain control.
  • The changes in temperature sometimes cause potholes in the streets. If you don’t see the pothole in time to steer around it, apply the brakes before hitting the pothole and release them just before you reach the pothole. If you keep the brake on as you hit the pothole, it will do more damage to the tire.
  • Try to keep your gas tank at least half full.
  • If your wheels spin on ice, switch to low gear, even on automatics.
  • Leave extra space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Remember that bridges and exit ramps are icier than roads.
  • Ask what kind of brakes your car has and how to use them in case of a skid.