Tag Archives: DRIVING

Winter Driving Tips

winter-driving

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.

DRIVING TIPS

Weather is Unpredictable, Just Like the Accidents It Can Cause.

Weather and other conditions don’t have to be a factor in accidents. Keep these tips in mind when you’re driving in any weather condition, anywhere, anytime.

  • Rainy

    • Turn on your headlamps to help other drivers see you
    • Slow down and leave room for stopping
    • Avoid slamming on your brakes to help prevent skids
    • Don’t drive through standing water or flooded roads

  • Foggy

    • Use low-beam headlamps to see and help others see you
    • Give yourself plenty of time to react when it’s hard to see
    • Avoid sudden stops in case there are vehicles behind you
    • If visibility is really low, use the road edge or painted road markings as a guide

  • Sunny

    • Use your visor to help block out the sun
    • Make sure your windshield is clean inside and out
    • Use your headlamps to help other drivers see you coming
    • Use lane markings as a guide when it’s too bright to see

  • Snowy

    • Accelerate slowly to avoid spinning on snow
    • Take your time and leave room for stopping
    • Make sure your windshield wipers work and you have washer fluid
    • Don’t drive if you don’t have to

    • Icy

      • Accelerate slowly to help keep your tires from spinning on ice
      • Take your time and leave plenty of room for stopping
      • Make sure your windshield wipers work and you have washer fluid
      • Don’t drive if you don’t have to

    • Night

      • Make sure your windshield is clean inside and out to reduce glare from other vehicles
      • Check your head- and tail-lamps to make sure they are all working
      • Pay attention to signs to help anticipate turns, stops and winding roadways
      • Give yourself plenty of time to react when it’s dark and hard to see

      TIPS SPONSORED BY FORD MOTOR COMPANY

SAFETY TIPS FOR AU PAIRS

 

A few tips to review with your host families to ensure your safety and others too!

Drivingc451134_l2-300x232

 

 

  • Make sure you have a clear understanding of the car use rules with your host family, if not talk to them about it or call me
  • Ask permission if you need the car to go somewhere other than where you would normally go
  • Do not take the car to areas that may not be considered safe, especially in and around cities, ask your host family if you are not sure
  • Be careful at night, park in well lit safe places, avoid empty looking car parks and indoor garages
  • Do not use your phone or any electronic devices while driving
  • Let your host family and I know immediately if you get into an accident so they can help you

Alcohol Laws in the United StatesF7471

 

  • It is illegal for anyone under 21 to drink alcohol in the United States.  If you are over 21 please be mindful if you are with other au pairs who are under 21 and the risk they take if they break the law.
  • Using a fake id’s is illegal.  You can be arrested for using a fake ID.
  • Drinking and driving is illegal and is extremely dangerous. It puts lives at risk.  You should never drink and drive.  If you are arrested for drinking and driving there are very serious consequences in this country including jail time.   Also, be a good friend and don’t let your friends drink and driver.   Make safe choices and don’t take unnecessary risks.
  • Do not risk your year and participation on the program by drinking underage, it is not worth it!

 

Home Alone -2

 

 

  • If your host parents are going away overnight and leaving you at home,  talk about the house rules ahead of time and respect them
  • Talk to your host parents about having friends over when they are away including friends staying overnight and male guests too
  • If you are under 21 years old do not offer alcohol and/or drink alcohol in your host parents home or offer alcohol to other au pairs in their home
  • If you are over 21 talk to your host family about their house rules regarding alcohol use.  Do not offer alcohol or buy alcohol for anyone who is under 21.


CAR SAFETY TIPS

4284aaa

Recommended items to have in the car in case of emergency:

  • Jumper Cables (these can be unsafe if used improperly, so be sure you know how to use them)
  • Flashlight
  • Flares
  • Reflective triangles
  • Bag of sand or kitty litter (to help if stuck in ice, snow)
  • Small shovel (for snow)
  • Extra windshield solvent
  • Blankets and extra clothing
  • Nonperishable food items and water (e.g.. snack bars)
  • Cell phone (do not use a cell phone while you are putting gas in the car; it can start a fire)
  • List of emergency telephone numbers on a card in the glove compartment (if you are a member of AAA, list that info too)
  • Snow brush and ice scraper