Safety Moment

Five Ways to be a Better Winter Driver

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• Winter weather can be very unpredictable, as can the road conditions. Besides snow and slush, black ice is a common occurrence on Newfoundland and Labrador roadways.

• Risk increases without the proper behaviour/skills.• 13% of Nalcor’s safety related incidents reported in

2014 were driving related. Of these:– 29% were due to employee driving behaviours;

– 26% were due to third party drivers.

Five Ways to be a Better Winter Driver

Clear your entire vehicle of snow and ice

• This includes your windshield, roof, mirrors, headlights and taillights.

• Doing so increases your visibility and protects other drivers and pedestrians.

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Be constantly aware of your surroundings

Before you drive, perform a full vehicle orientation and always pay attention behind the wheel. Driver distraction, road conditions, third parties and animals (moose, caribou) are frequent vehicle incident factors.

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Always be prepared

• Check the weather forecast and road conditions before you leave.

• Avoid rushing, give yourself extra time to clear your car and reach your destination safely.

• Equip your vehicle with the following:- Extra jug windshield wash (rated for winter temps)- Ice scraper/snow brush- Emergency kit- Warm blanket/extra clothes

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Slow down and keep your distance

• No matter the posted limit, use caution and adjust your speed when driving on snowy or slippery roads.

• Maintain a good braking distance of at least four seconds from the car ahead of you, this ensures you have enough space to stop safely on icy streets.

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Avoid incident in case of a skid

• Drivers should be looking far ahead to anticipate the need to change speed, to steer into another lane or turn.

• Remember the following tips if a skid occurs:– Stay calm– Do not accelerate– Do not brake– Look where you want your vehicle to go– Steer in this direction.

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A proud, diverse energy company, whose people are committedto building a bright future for Newfoundland and Labrador,

unified by our core values.

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