We have had a mighty cold snap all across the country in recent weeks. Here in Houston where I run, Hot Shot Delivery, Inc, a Houston Courier Service, we are finally going to reach the 60 degree mark for the first time in a week. Now before all my friends up north start in on me about this, I must say, Houston, Texas has not seen sustained overnight temperatures below freezing like this in over ten years. Heck, I’m usually in flip flops at New Years!
So, what does this have to do with 24/7 365? The media has story after story with the local plumber reminding people to wrap their pipes and stay prepared. They have been getting calls at all hours of the night for broken pipes and busted sprinkler heads. Running jobs at all hours of the night is nothing new to most of us in the courier business, but it is important to stop and reflect on the importance of being prepared and having a proper strategy for any and all weather related events. Especially when driving at night in subfreezing weather. The roads are slick and deliveries still have to be made urgently, but, with extra caution.
Do you have a winter strategy in place? Have you spent time ensuring that those who work for you and represent you know what precautions they need to take when transporting freight or even themselves to and from the office?
Here are a few tips for winter driving conditions:
- Use slower acceleration and slower speeds.
- Avoid heavy steering and braking.
- Allow extra time to reach your destination during inclement weather. It is not worth putting your own life or the lives of others in danger to save time.
- Drive with your headlights on.
- Don’t get overconfident with four-wheel drive. It won’t help you stop any faster.
- Winter road conditions often result in longer stopping distances. Give yourself room. If you have anti-lock brakes, press the pedal down firmly and hold it. If you don’t have anti-lock brakes, gently pump the pedal.
- Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shady spots. These all have potential to develop black ice.
- Avoid abrupt actions while steering, braking or accelerating to lessen your chance of losing control.
- Look farther ahead in traffic. Actions by other drivers will alert you to problems and give you extra reaction time.
- Trucks take longer to stop. Don’t cut in front of them.
- Avoid using cruise control or overdrive. Don’t let your car make a bad decision for you.
Also, check out the Red Cross’s “Winter Storm Safety Check List” and be prepared.
Have a warm and cozy day, where ever you are!
Until next time,
Eric
