Editorial: Let it snow, with caution

The first snow of the winter fell upon us this past weekend.

Perfect crystalline flakes floated down all day, turning the drab gray to a magical white.

It was a perfect time to roll over and go back to sleep, lay on the couch and watch TV or enjoy a good book. But for those who had to drive, it was a good day to be careful.

And now that we have passed the first snow, we know that there will be more to come. So, here, in the lull between storms, it is a good time to reflect on what we can all do as drivers to stay safe in the winter.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, transportation accidents are the biggest cause of deaths during winter storms. It is incumbent upon all of us to take that into account before driving in inclement weather.

FEMA recommends that in preparation for the winter season, drivers have their cars checked by a mechanic. In particular, FEMA suggests you have the following items looked at:
• Antifreeze
• Battery and ignition system
• Brakes
• Exhaust system
• Fuel and air filters
• Heater and defroster
• Lights and flashing hazard lights
• Oil
• Thermostat
• Windshield wiper equipment

Also, FEMA recommends you have good winter tires, maintain a half a tank of gas at all times and keep an emergency kit. For more information, visit fema.gov/hazard/winter/wi_before.shtm.

These are just some of the ways you can prepare for inclement winter weather. You can also just do what some others did during Saturday's winter storm: don't leave the house.

Here's hoping for a white Christmas.

Stafford County Sun editorials represent the opinion of the managing editor. Other columns, letters and cartoons on his page express the opinions of the authors and not necessarily the Stafford County Sun.