Pre ski trip safety check

News reports during winter in the southern states can be disturbing. Regularly there are stories about motorists in trouble when snow and ice make conditions difficult.

Of course it’s not just areas familiar to snow ski enthusiasts which are subject to winter blues for drivers and passengers – on some days of the year, those who commute to Melbourne, Canberra and Hobart must contend with ‘black ice’ on the road.

To tilt the odds more in your favour, here is our pre-departure winter driving safety check list.

Tyre wear and lack of tread reduces grip and makes safe driving difficult. Add snow, ice and sub-zero temperatures to the equation and your tyres are under significant pressure to perform. Have all four tyres checked before you set off on any road trip, particularly to the snow. And ensure your spare (temporary, kit or otherwise) and tools are ready for use.

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Depending on your vehicle, you may need to add anti-freeze to the engine coolant. If you’re unsure, ask for help. Diesel-powered vehicles may need alpine-mix diesel to avoid fuel freeze. Again check with your service station and, for certainty, locate the fuel stop closest to your destination.

Windscreen washer fluids can also ice-up and there is a very real chance you’ll be needing to clear your ‘screen frequently, so add some anti-freeze there too. Again, If you’re unsure, simply ask.

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Your car’s ability to grip and brake effectively is significantly reduced in the snow – poor brake pads will amplify this, making it unsafe to say the least. Be sure to check your brake pads (and/or rear drums) are in good condition before you get anywhere near the snow. Remember, tyres and brakes are significant contributors to vehicle safety and you can easily monitor the health of both.

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Fog, clouds, rain and snow are all inhibitors to clear visibility. Combine freezing temperatures and a car full of eager snow-goers and you’ll find car windows regularly fogging up. If you’re HVAC and demister systems are not in good working order, you’re in a world of trouble and rectification isn’t fast or simple. If your car has air-conditioning, using it constantly (rather than just the heater) is the best means of keeping you glass clear.

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Along with grip, visibility is the game changer when driving in the snow. If you’re lucky, you’ll be blessed with a fresh covering of powder every day for great conditions on the slopes. On the road however, this can mean zero visibility. Ensure your wipers are working and that the blades are in good condition so you can clear the windscreen with ease. You can make-do with worn wiper blades in conventional wet weather, but when snow and ice are present, even moderate wear will significantly impair operation.