Co ld W ea ther Preca ut ions
By Karleen Kos, PSAI Executive Director…continued from page 13
Be sure to have these things on hand in the truck:
• Blankets
• Snow shovel and/or scraper, pry bars/chippers (unit pick
up/delivery)
• Flashlight/headlamps and extra batteries
• Extra clothing with reflective tape: cap, mittens, parka
and overshoes or boots in case you have to walk for help
• Non-perishable food like protein bars and canned nuts
• Sand/grit or rock salt
• Extra windshield washer fluid (rated for below freezing temperatures) and antifreeze
Snow and ice will build up on the wheels and other crannies of the truck. Be sure to clean debris from
the vehicle periodically so the lights are visible and equipment is accessible.
Use extreme caution - don't drive where more than 3 inches of snow hasn't been plowed. If you can
avoid unplowed areas altogether, that's even better. In addition to the risk of getting stuck in the
snow, areas where it doesn't freeze often or deeply will often have mud below the snow. Getting stuck
in a mud/snow combination is to be avoided at
all costs; the expenses associated with removing a
tank truck from that situation are very high indeed.
Slow down. Pay attention and adjust steering and braking behavior. Remember: posted speed limits
are for dry pavement. Allow extra stopping room for snow and ice.
• Leave extra following and stopping
room between vehicles.
• Assume stopping distance will be
extended due to wet or slippery
conditions
• Remember that the shifting load in
a tank vehicle will push the truck
further forward on slick roadways.
• Be mindful of the road surface
when temperatures hover around
freezing. You never know when you
might find black ice.
WEEKLY EDITION DECEMBER 4, 2019
PAGE 14
CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
