Safety: Are You and Your Vehicles Ready for Winter?

BLUF: Winter weather preparations should include winter survivability in case of emergencies.


Photo by 1st Lt. Jason Carr
 

This article initially appeared in PS 792 (Nov 18), p. 12.*

Operators, winter is definitely here. Whether it’s your assigned military vehicle or personal automobile, you’ve got snow tires and antifreeze and think you’re good to go. Hold on! There’s more to winter prep than snow tires and antifreeze!
 
Winter weather requires more preparation and maintenance for vehicles. Part of that preparation should include winter survivability tips in case of emergencies.
 
Of course, the -10 TM is your first stop when it comes to your assigned military vehicle. The section on Operation Under Unusual Conditions has info about starting, operating and maintaining vehicles in cold weather.
 
A video, produced by the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center, is a great resource, too, particularly when it comes to your personal car or truck. It shows what to do if you’re stranded in a vehicle during winter. You can view it below.

• Raise the hood and display a trouble sign, like a bright cloth tied to the side mirror or fastened at the top of a door.
• Make sure snow drifts or debris don’t block the tail pipe.
• Stay in the vehicle unless you can see help within 100 yards.
• Crank the vehicle once every hour and run the heater about 10 minutes.