But make sure you’re driving safe in it while you’re singing… The National Weather Service is calling for a good chance of rain in much of California this week. We certainly need it.
But with our first chance of real precipitation, it will be dangerous as last week with only light and spotty showers traffic accidents went on the rise significantly.
It’s pretty stressful even when it’s not raining says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. Most people just don’t pay attention or exercise common sense much anymore. We have far too many distractions at our disposal.
Driving in the rain doesn’t have to be an added stressful experience. First and foremost –Think! “Many people drive subconsciously, out of habit,” says Chief DiGiovanna. Make sure your habits are good ones. “When it rains, we often don’t adjust our thinking.”
Stay alert and focused. Turn on those headlights. It’s the law in most states to turn headlights on when visibility is low, and many states require having the headlights on when the windshield wipers are in use.
Check this out – or at least have your mechanic check to make sure your wipers are working well. Good tires, brakes and distance are also ‘must-haves’ when driving in rain. How are your tires and brakes?
Beware of hydroplaning. That’s the technical term for what occurs when your tires are getting more traction on the layer of water on the road than on the road itself – the result is that your car begins to slide uncontrollably. If you start to hydroplane, let off the accelerator slowly and steer straight until you regain control.
Speed limit signs are designed for ideal conditions, “and that means driving when you have little traffic and good visibility.” That’s hardly the environment you’re driving in when it’s raining, so let up on the accelerator and allow more time to get to your destination.
Cell phone and texting? Don’t even think about!
Here are additional safety tips on driving safe in the rain: smartmotorist.com/driving-guideline/tips-for-driving-in-rain.html
Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
