Winter driving tips for fleet drivers

Preparing your truck for winter and knowing how to react if you are stranded or lost on the road are the keys to safe winter driving.

Before departing on your route, always be sure to dress warmly with layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. Plan accordingly for long trips. If possible, always travel during the daylight and listen to the radio or call the state highway patrol for the latest road conditions. 

It's also important to check over your tires to make sure you have an adequate tread, and have a mechanic check the following items in your truck:

• Battery
• Antifreeze
• Wipers and windshield washer fluid
• Ignition system
• Thermostat
• Lights
• Flashing hazard lights
• Exhaust system
• Heater
• Brakes
• Defroster
• Oil level — if necessary, replace existing oil with winter grade oil or the SAE 10w/30 weight variety.

Always keep these items in your truck in the event of an emergency:

• Rain gear and extra clothing
• Non-perishable food and water 
• Windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal
• Flashlights with extra batteries
• A small sack of sand (for traction)
• First-aid kit with pocket knife
• Booster cables
• Necessary medication
• Brightly colored cloth (to use as a flag)
• Several blankets
• Bottled water
• Sleeping bags
• High-energy snacks
• Extra newspapers for insulation
• Plastic bags (for sanitation)
• Extra mittens, socks, a wool cap, and winter boots