While travel this holiday season likely won’t reach the level that it has in previous years, there are still many people who are either traveling for their own family vacations, traveling for a change of scenery, or traveling for small get-togethers with those they love. So to ensure that you’re able to make it to your destination safely and enjoy the time you’re spending there, it’s important that you know how to protect yourself while you’re traveling.
To help you see how this can be done, here are three tips for safe winter travel this year.
Know What The Weather Forecast Means
If you live in an area that has winter weather, you’re going to want to do some research into how the weather could affect your travels before you hit the road.
According to Boise State University, different language about storms means that a different level of danger is possible and should differently affect your travel plans. For example, a winter weather advisory means that it’s possible to have dangerous winter weather over the next day to two. But if you have a winter storm warning, it’s expected that dangerous winter weather will be in your area. And if you have a blizzard warning, there will be severe winter weather in your area. Based on this information, you can make a judgement call about what you’re comfortable driving in.
Do Your COVID-19 Research
This year, one of the biggest dangers related to winter travel is the spread of COVID-19. So if you’re going to be visiting a new area or seeing people who you don’t live with, you’ll also want to do your research about COVID-19 and its potential impacts and restrictions.
The CDC shares that if you’re planning on seeing anyone who’s particularly vulnerable to getting very sick from COVID-19, like those living in assisted living facilities or people with preexisting conditions, you’ll want to stick to the safety guidelines about wearing masks and social distancing. Also, if you’re visiting an area that has restrictions or quarantine requirements, you’ll want to be sure that you’re aware of these before you get there.
Learn How To Handle Icy Or Snowy Roads
If you anticipate being on winter roads when conditions aren’t ideal, it’s a good idea to know how to handle icy or snowy roads so that you can keep yourself and others safe.
According to the National Safety Council, some of the best winter driving tips to remember when you’re behind the wheel include steering into the skid, being light on the gas pedal and brake, and increasing your following distance. All of these principles can help keep you on the road and avoid getting stuck or in an accident during bad winter weather.
If you’re planning to do any traveling this winter, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you keep yourself and all those around you safe during your trip.
