...dangerous weather

Spring is upon us and many of you have probably already experienced driving in some of the season’s strong storms. Safely traveling from point A to point B is the goal and the threat of harsh weather is unavoidable. Here are tips to refresh yourself on some basic weather safety as well as what to do in case of a tornado. Please share any of your own tips or experiences in the comments section! We love hearing from you.

• In rain conditions be sure to keep substantial space betweenyour truck and the vehicle in front of your truck in case of an emergency stop.
• In bad weather, do not feel obliged to go as fast as the speed limit. Slower speeds are necessary to avoid rollovers, jackknifes, and collisions
• Tune in to your radio to stay informed of approaching storms.
• Turn on your headlights and slow down. Many states require the use of headlights during rain.
• The truck provides better insulation against lightning than being in the open.
• Avoid contact with any metal conducting surfaces either inside your cab or outside.
• Check your windshield wipers and tires regularly to insure that they are ready for severe weather.

Tornado Safety
• Do not drive during tornado conditions.
• Never try to out-drive a tornado in a vehicle. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift a car or truck and toss it through the air.
• Get out of your vehicle immediately and seek shelter in a nearby building.
• If there is no time to get indoors, or if there is no nearby shelter, get out of the truck and lie in a ditch or a low-lying area away from the vehicle. Be aware of the potential for flooding.

Don't forget about Earth Day on Sunday. Each year, Earth Day - April 22 - marks the anniversary of what many consider the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970.

For drivers, simple things like reducing idling time and turning off lights when not in use can have an impact. This conscious effort and awareness means that change is possible. Happy Earth Day!

Sources:
The Truckers Report

The Weather Channel: Tornado

The Weather Channel: Thunder