Safely

driving

in fog

By Eagle Bear

You wake up in the morning and walk outside to your car. The weather's a bit balmy after being cold for a few days. Once you get on the road you notice a blanket of fog so thick you can barely see to the end of your car's hood, don't panic.

Follow these safety tips from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation.

P Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits the conditions.

P Use your low beam headlights. High beams reflect off the moisture droplets in the fog, making it harder to see. If you have fog lights on your vehicle, use them in addition to your low beams.

P Be patient, avoid passing, changing lanes, and crossing traffic.

P Use pavement markings (the fog line) to help guide you. Use the right edge of the road as a guide, rather than the center lane.

P Increase your distance. You will need extra distance to brake safely.

P Look and listen for any hazards that may be ahead.

P Reduce distractions in your vehicle.

P Watch for any electronically operated warning signs.

P Keep looking as far ahead as possible.

P Keep your windows and mirrors clean. Use your defrosters and wipers to maximize your vision.

P If fog is too dense to continue, pull completely off the road and try to position your vehicle in a protected area from other traffic. Turn on your emergency flashers.

Before you drive, and during your trip, check weather forecasts and road reports. If authorities have released weather warnings or reports of poor visibility and driving conditions, delay your trip until conditions improve, if possible.

Eagle Bear Burling, 27 years on the job and a spotless safety record as the Senior Lead Communications Maintainer for CSXT Railroad, is first and foremost a devoted member of the Wyandotte Indian tribe. He holds two associate degrees and an advanced degree in Native American Logic from the University of Wisconsin as well as certification as an engineer first class. Eagle Bear’s Safety Minutes are posted and updated weekly.