Autumn — it’s a beautiful season. The leaves are changing colors and the temperature isn’t too warm or too cold. What you may not know, however, is that aside from fall’s postcard-like scenery, there are seasonal driving hazards that should be taken into consideration.
The Wayne County Department of Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program reminds residents that following a few additional precautions can help drivers make autumn safer for individuals both on and off the road.
Use Common Sense Guidelines to Stay Safe
“By following simple, common sense guidelines, residents can enjoy the seasonal change to shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures more safely with their families,” said Dr. Mouhanad Hammami, acting director/health officer, Wayne County Department of Public Health.
Earlier Evenings mean Less Visibility for Motorists – Watch out for Residents at Dusk
Until clocks are set back Nov. 4 when daylight saving time ends, a minute of daylight will be lost daily, and afterwards, sunsets and evenings will occur even earlier. During this transition, drivers should be especially careful at dusk to watch for pedestrians, joggers, walkers and bicyclists who may not be clearly visible on sidewalks and roads.
Wear Reflective Safety Gear to Stay Safe and Seen
Likewise, those participating in such activities during evening hours or night, should take special care to wear reflective clothing such as safety vests, helmets and other gear.
Autumn Leaves – Scenic on Trees, Hazardous on the Ground
Colorful autumn leaves while beautiful on trees, can be just as hazardous as standing water or ice and snow when piled along a roadside. If a motorist’s vehicle hits a patch of wet leaves, it can lose traction. Drivers should treat wet leaves the same way as they would a water hazard, by slowing down and braking and steering carefully.
Avoid Driving through Leaves: Keep your Eyes Open for Children and Pets
Similarly, driving through a pile of leaves on a street or road is a ba idea. Not thinking, children and pets mayplay covered in leaves, becoming invisible to drivers. It is also inadvisable to drive through leaves as a vehicle may possibly lose control. Leaves can also ignite on hot engine parts or might cover a pothole or other undetected driving hazard.
Prevent Fender Benders and Accidents with a Clear Windshield and Caution
As temperatures continue to dip, low nighttime temperatures can cause frost build up on windshields and roads. Be sure your windshield is completely clear before driving. Also, slow down and use caution when approaching bridges and overpasses. These thoroughfares are more likely to collect frost and ice, and result in slick and slippery road surfaces that increase the chance for serious accidents.
Put Together an All-Season Automotive Emergency Kit for your Travels
And no matter the season, preparing and carrying an emergency kit for your automobile can be a real lifesaver.
In the kit, be sure to include a flashlight, flares and a first-aid kit, jumper cables, extra washer fluid, nonperishable food, a jug of water, and a few basic tools such as wrenches, a ratchet/socket set, screwdrivers and pliers. Also include a thermal blanket, a shovel and bags of sand for the cold weather season.
Be Prepared and Stay Safe…
“A little preparedness can make a big difference,” Dr. Hammami said. “By staying alert, using caution and preparing for the changing season and climate, all of us can be safer and healthier.”
Wayne County Health and Safety Services Available
The Wayne County Health Department serves 1.2 million county residents with programs addressing environmental, nutritional, community, women and children’s health, communicable disease prevention and control and emergency preparedness.
For more information about the Wayne County Health Department and Emergency Preparedness, call 734-727-7000.
Source: Wayne County Health and Human Services Department