Love it or hate it, be smart about the snow | Editorial

On the first day of the snow storm this week, we listened to our scanner. Right away, at 11 a.m., we heard of a single car collision into a fence on North Beach Road. The driver was not injured, but it reminded us how treacherous driving on winter roads can be.
Damaging wind and snow storms have long been a way of life in the islands. For the past decade or so, we’ve only had a few memorable storms. While this is great, it also means we forget what it is like to drive in dangerous conditions or be unable to get into town for days at a time.
Here are some winter driving tips, courtesy of the Washington State Department of Transportation.
• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights – even the hood and roof – before driving.
• Pay attention. Don’t try to out-drive the conditions. Remember the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
• Leave plenty of room for stopping.
• Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows – stay back at least 200 feet.
• Use brakes carefully. Brake early. Don’t stomp on the brakes. It takes more time to stop in adverse conditions.
•  Don’t get overconfident in your 4×4 vehicle. Remember that your four-wheel drive vehicle may help you get going quicker than other vehicles but it won’t help you stop any faster. Many 4×4 vehicles are heavier than passenger vehicles and actually may take longer to stop. Don’t get overconfident with your 4×4 vehicle’s traction. Your 4×4 can lose traction as quickly as a two-wheel drive vehicle.
• Don’t pump anti-lock brakes. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes, do not pump brakes in attempting to stop. The right way is to “stomp and steer.”
• Remember that trucks are heavier than cars. Trucks take longer to safely respond and come to a complete stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of them.
• Go slow!
FEMA advises people to compile an emergency supply kit, which includes items like non-perishable food, water, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra flashlights, batteries, rock salt to melt ice on walkways, sand to improve traction, and snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.
Please be cautious during these remaining winter months. Your life can be altered in an instant – don’t increase your chances for an accident by driving recklessly on dangerous roads.