HomeMy WebLinkAbout1977 11-02 Pre-season vehicle checks important DISPATCH Pre- season vehicle checks important iJ`'i' �` / X77
Motorists who stall this time of year —Get a complete tune up for your car. clean. Reduced visibility and increased
cause increasing concern for Maplewood This is important not just to get going on stopping distance in winter make good
Chief of Police Richard Schaller and city cold mornings, but to prevent erratic lighting critical.
street officials responsible for keeping engine behavior that could cause skidding —Check your tires. Worn treads
traffic moving during severe winter on winter slick roads. In addition to significantly reduce stopping and starting
weather. timing and plugs,have a mechanic check traction on slippery pavements. But
Stalled vehicles choke off vital corn- your battery, the entire electrical and remember, regardless of the type of
munity services and Schaller contends heater-defroster systems.Anti-freeze and special treads you might use on your car,
that future winter tie-ups can be avoided windshield washer fluid must offer reinforced tire chains are by far your best
by a little advace preparation now. adequate protection for the coldest traction aids for starting, going and
"Motorists who drive cars that stall in temperatures you'll encounter. stopping under severe winter conditions.
today's weather are sure to stall later —Have brakes checked. Unequal —Carry emergency equipment in your
when snow and colder temperatures set braking on slippery surfaces is almost trunk.Safety gear should include: booster
in.That means that drivers who`stall off' sure to cause dangerous skidding. cables; reinforced tire chains in good
needed vehicle maintenance now are apt —Have the exhaust system checked. repair; sand, rock salt and a traction
to wind up waiting in line at a service Even a small leak can result in deadly mat;a shovel; safety flares or reflectors;
station on the first bad winter day — carbon monoxide build-up in the driver's a tow chain, cable or strap; extra wind-
assuming they're lucky enough to get that compartment. ' shield washer solvent; a window scraper
far!" —Replace worn windshield wiper and paper towels,heavy gloves and extra
Getting a car ready for winter's worst blades.Wipers crack and go dead during winter clothing.
isn't difficult, according to Schaller. summer heat.If wipers streak in rain,the Schaller added the department is
Basic suggestions and tips have been problem will be magnified when they currently winterizing its vehicles. "You
recommended by the National Safety must move snow or sleet from a cold won't see many stalled police vehicles—
Council's Committee on Winter Driving windshield. not if there's anything we can do now to
Hazards. —Check all vehicle lights, keep lenses avoid the problem!"