Be Prepared When Heading Out on the Roads this Winter

Posted: Jan. 25, 2010

As drivers in Greendale and throughout Wisconsin know all too well, winter weather can present many challenges, often with little notice. It’s critical to be prepared before heading out on the road.

 

AAA of Wisconsin places a cell phone at the top of its list of things to include in a winter driving survival kit. “Customers have always cited safety as one of the most important reasons they own a cell phone,” said Chris Rathsack, director of sales for U.S. Cellular in Wisconsin. “Cell phones provide a sense of security in case you get stuck and can be used to easily access help in an emergency situation.”

 

With 3G service, drivers can check weather forecasts and stay on top of dangerous driving conditions from their phones. For example, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Web site includes road condition maps designed for use on mobile devices. Additionally, a smartphone can act as a GPS unit, providing voice-guided, turn-by-turn directions for a nominal monthly fee.

 

None of these applications will work, however, if a phone isn’t properly maintained. Here are some tips from U.S. Cellular to help Greendale drivers optimize their phone for winter travel use:

 

Don’t expose to extreme cold – Temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit can harm the battery’s life and run down the charge more quickly. When out in the cold, carry your phone in an inside jacket pocket, keeping it close to your body for warmth.

 

Keep it charged – Charge your phone frequently so that it is ready to use when you need it most. It is a good idea to keep an extra battery charged in case of winter emergencies.

 

Keep your phone near you – Motorists should keep their phones within reach. Programming your phone for voice-activated dialing can help keep your eyes on the road if you must make or receive a phone call. The best option is to pull over to a safe location before dialing or texting.

 

Save your contacts – Program emergency phone numbers and those of family and friends into your cell phone for easy access. Include “I.C.E” or “In Case of Emergency” contacts in your cell phone (for example, “I.C.E. Mom”). I.C.E. numbers stored in your phone allow emergency workers to contact the important people in your life in the case of an accident.

 

Find resources before you need them – Finally, drivers should program their cell phone with numbers for state road condition hotlines and a reliable towing service in addition to storing phone numbers for emergency services, family and friends. Wisconsin road information is available by calling 866-511-9472.