As of 11:30 a.m. today, Wichita, Kansas and much of the country are experiencing heavy snowfall. Wichita temperatures are around 25 degrees Fahrenheit, with winds of 15 mph from the east dropping visibility to less that half a mile. The next six hours anticipate an additional 2 inches of snowfall in the area and increasing winds to 20 mph.
Driving in these wintry conditions warrants extra precautions:
- Go slow — Be prepared for slower acceleration, slower speeds and slower braking.
- Leave extra room between your car and the car in front of you — the larger your auto is, the longer it may take you to come to a complete stop, so allow additional space between your bumper and that of the car in front of you.
- Use headlights — turning your headlights on makes you more visible to both oncoming traffic and those behind you.
- Don't leave the house unprepared — take a warm coat and gloves, an extra blanket, water and snacks (e.g., granola bars, fruit strips, nuts).
- Pack a winter survival kit — include a flashlight, batteries, first-aid kit, extra gloves and matches.
- Put a bag of sand in your trunk — it will help weigh your car down, and the sand can be sprinkled under rear tires if you get stuck in the snowdrift.
- Keep an ice scraper in your car — invest in one with the handle surrounded by waterproof fabric to keep your hand warm while you scrape.
- Check your tires — makes sure they have enough tread and are filled up properly.
- Keep your tank full — extremely cold temperatures can freeze a tank that is low on fuel.
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