TRANSPORTATION TUESDAY

1. TRANSPORTATION TUESDAY A change in weather… It’s time to check your vehicle again! Four or five months back, we were preparing to drive during summer…now we are approaching winter. It may be cooler but cold temperatures make it difficult to drive…plus, there are more chances of rain and fog… Read on to find out what you should do...

2. A quick general check is needed.. Before heading out…. • Check your vehicle’s fluid levels - oil, water and transmission. Make sure they meet recommended operating levels listed in your vehicle’s manufacturing/owner’s manual. • Change the engine oil and adjust the viscosity grade. During winter, the engine oil is likely to get thick preventing proper lubrication. • Inspect your belts and hoses. They may be in good condition but it is always good to double-check! • Check your wipers and wiper fluid. Visibility is important during winter. Harsh rains or winter storms are the worst possible time to run out of wiper fluid. • Check your signal and head lights. Some mornings are dull and foggy!

3. A quick check - the best way to start! • Inspect your tiretread and air pressure including the spare. It is important to have properly inflated tires as this ensures the best contact with the road. • Find out if winter affects your vehicle’s performance and whether your car has traction control. Refer to the manufacturing/owner’s manual for more information on your vehicle. • Make sure your heater worksbefore the winter season starts. • Check your battery - cold temperatures reduce a vehicle’s battery power by 50%. If your battery is three years or older, get it checked by an authorized mechanic. • Make sure your brakes work. If they are worn out, you may not be able to stop in time to avoid an accident.

4. While driving… During a rainy day.. • Slow down, particularly through puddles. Remember the roads are slippery. Fast driving through puddles may allow water to seep into the engine, causing it to seize. • Allow for more travel time - rainy days add to traffic congestion. • Be vigilant - heavy rain affects visibility. • Maintain a safe distance. Your vehicle requires two or three times more stopping distance on wet roads. • Stay informed - listen to the weather forecast on your radio to help prepare for an unexpected hazard. • Use the center lane - water accumulates near pave ways and side lanes. • Again, make sure your wipers are functioning properly.

5. During foggy conditions… • Reduce your speed and be careful. • Maintain a safe distance between vehicles. • Turn on your low beam headlights. • Do not use your hazard signal as this will confuse other drivers. • Beware of drivers who do not use their headlights. • Be extra careful at junctions, roundabouts and intersections. There is a possibility of colliding with other vehicles. • Don’t assume that a clear patch means the fog has lifted. You might accelerate into another patch of thick fog as you drive further. • If the fog is too thick, it is wise to step off the gas and wait till the fog clears!

6. Act now and be prepared for winter driving... Don't forget to read the company's policy on driving during harsh weather conditions!

7. Southern Gulf PII Health & Safety Team Taking Safety 'Beyond the Red Zone'