Know when to wait out the storm; it’s not worth your life
As I write my first safety column for Grain Journal while the rain falls down my patio door, it forces me to think about just how many holidays are ahead of us this season.
From sitting down to carve the turkey served with gravy to passing along the traditional side dishes each family brings for Christmas gatherings. I’m reminded that not all family members will be having a jolly good time with us. There are some we are missing at our family table this year, and we are not alone in remembering those that have left us far too soon.
Unfortunately, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, over 1,000 motor vehicle accident fatalities occur. While winter road conditions can be blamed, the amount of people out on the roads at night after a nice celebration can also be a contributing factor.
When it comes to winter driving, the usuals of buckling up, having a designated driver, or driving attentively is key. But we also have to be prepared for the unprepared and take our defensive driving to the next level.
Winter Emergency Kit
If you’re looking for a last-minute Christmas gift for the driver in the family, an emergency kit is never a bad idea. You can buy one cheaply from places like Amazon or create your own.
Some items you might consider are:
• Extra cell phone charger/power bank.
• First aid kit.
• Jumper cables.
• Flares/warning triangle.
• Drinking water and snacks.
• Flashlight.
• Blanket, boots, mittens, and other winter wear.
• Tow rope.
• Shovel, ice scraper, snow brush.
• Bag of sand or cat litter.
• Matches.
• Extra essential medications.
• Pocket knife/multi-tool.
• Extra gas (stored in a no-spill can).
• Baby wipes or toilet paper.
• Emergency radio.
Wait it Out
Ultimately, the best thing to do when driving in poor conditions is to know when it is time to just get off the road and travel again when conditions improve. There have been a couple of nights where I have been driving late at night, the snow plows have stopped for the night, and snow is blinding my way home. When I’m in this situation, I find the nearest gas station and wait it out for a few hours with a warm blanket and pillow in my reclined seat until the plows get back out. This has saved me from going into the ditch more than once. Sometimes you have to just know when it is time to get smart and ensure you get home to your loved ones for many holidays to come.
Whether it is taking your time to get to your destination, postponing that trip until the next day, or getting prepared with an emergency kit, a little prep and precaution can ensure we celebrate the holiday season safely with our loved ones. The holidays are a time to bring cheer. Don’t let the winter wonderland put you at risk.
I wish you a happy and safe holiday season!
Cadrien Livingston is the Midwest regional safety manager for Viterra in Hubbard, NE. She can be reached at 402-889-4145 and cadrien.livingston@viterra.com.
From the Nov/Dec 2024 Issue of Grain Journal