Winter Weather

Winter Weather Driving Checklist

·        Coolant Level and Antifreeze Amount.  Make sure that the cooling system is full and there is enough anti-freeze in the system to protect against freezing.

·        Defrosting and Heating equipment.   Make sure the defrosters work.  They are needed for safe driving.  Make sure the heater is working, and that you know how to operate it.

·        Wipers and Washer fluids.  Make sure the windshield wiper blades are in good condition.  Make sure the wiper blades press against the windows hard enough to wipe the windshield clean.  Otherwise they may not sweep off snow properly.  Make sure the windshield washer works and there is washing fluid contained in the washer reservoir.

·        Tires.  Make sure that you have enough tread on your tires.  The drive tires must have enough tread to push the bus over wet pavement and snow.  The steering tires must have enough traction to steer the bus.  Enough tread is especially important in winter conditions.  You must have at least 4/32 inch tread depth in every major groove on front tires and at least 2/32 inch on other tires.  More would be better.  Use a gauge to determine if you have enough tread for safe driving.

·        Lights and Reflectors.  Make sure the lights and reflectors are clean.  Lights and reflectors are especially important during bad weather.  Check from time to time during bad weather to make sure they are clean and working.

·        Windows and Mirrors.  Remove any ice, snow, etc., from the windshield, windows, and mirrors before starting.  Use a windshield scraper, snow brush, and windshield defroster as necessary.

·        Hand Holds, Steps, and Deck Plates.  Remove all ice from handholds, steps, and deck plates, which you must use to enter the cab or to move about the vehicle.  This will reduce the danger of slipping.

·        Radiator Shutters and Winterfront.  Remove ice from the radiator shutters.  Make sure the winterfront   (do we have?) is not closed too tightly.  If the shutters freeze shut or the winterfront is closed too much, the engine may overheat and stop.

·        Exhaust System.  Exhaust system leaks are especially dangerous when cab ventilation may be poor (windows rolled up, etc.).  Loose connections could permit poisonous carbon monoxide to leak into your vehicle.  Carbon monoxide gas will cause you to be sleepy.  In large enough amounts it can kill you.  Check the exhaust system for loose parts and for sounds and signs of leaks.

Slippery Surfaces.  Drive slowly and smoothly on slippery roads.  If it is very slippery, you shouldn’t drive at all.  Stop at the first safe place.

Start Gently and Slowly.  When first starting, get the feel of the road.  Don’t hurry.

Adjust Turning and Braking to Conditions. 

Adjust Speed to Conditions.

Adjust Space to Conditions.