Things to Do Week of January 23 – 29, 2012
Go with the snow.
Last week’s snow was a great excuse to stay home, make some soup and catch up on some reading. I was surprised to see snow last Sunday on my way to recycle. The storm had come in from the north east and done a pretty good job of turning RocheHarbor road into a very long slip and slide. The snow had covered some ice and it quickly got ugly for about 9 cars without 4 wheel drive. Here are some tips to remember when we occasionally get snow.
- Get the feel of the road by starting out slowly and testing your steering control and braking ability. Avoid spinning your tires when you start by gently pressing your gas pedal until the car starts to roll. Start slowing down at least three times sooner than you normally would when turning or stopping.
- Equip your vehicle with chains or snow tires. Chains are by far the most effective, and they should be used where ice and snow remain on the roadway. Remember that snow tires will slide on ice or packed snow so keep your distance.
- Reduce your speed to correspond with conditions. There is no such thing as a “safe” speed range at which you may drive on snow or ice. You must be extremely cautious until you are able to determine how much traction you can expect from your tires.
- When stopping, avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel and pump the brake gently. Avoid locking of brakes on glazed ice as it will cause a loss of steering and control. Every city block and every mile of highway may be different, depending upon sun or shade and the surface of the roadway. (Check your vehicle owner’s manual, if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes, you may apply steady pressure to the brake pedal.)
- Maintain a safe interval between you and the car ahead of you according to the conditions of the pavement. Many needless rear-end crashes occur on icy streets because drivers forget to leave stopping space.
- Keep your vehicle in the best possible driving condition. The lights, tires, brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, and radiator are especially important for winter driving.
- Keep your windows clear. Don’t start driving until the windows are defrosted and clean – even if you’re only going a short distance.
- Watch for danger or slippery spots ahead. Ice may remain on bridges even though the rest of the road is clear. Snow and ice also stick longer in shaded areas.
The rain on Saturday did quick work to melt the snow and get us back to normal. Looks like a bit of rain this week and hopefully clear for the Wedding show this weekend. Planning a wedding? Come and meet the Friday Harbor’s premier wedding vendors on Saturday, Jan 28th from 11am – 4pm at Island Inn,123 West St, Friday Harbor. Welcome reception evening before, Fri 27th 6-8pm, same location. Showcasing their talents will be photographers, florists, musicians, lodging and venues, caterers, cake designer, activities and spas. Entry is free. Many drawings and special discounts available at the show, as well as dining and room discounts for the weekend.
Have a great week!
