SAFETY ON SNOW

How to prevent collisions, getting stuck, and respond correctly in an emergency situation.

BEFORE DRIVING

Check your winter tires (minimum tread depth of 4 mm)

Top up your windshield washer fluid with antifreeze

Make sure your cell phone is fully charged (ideally, bring a power bank as well)

Check the weather forecast and road conditions

Mandatory/recommended equipment

- Ice scraper and brush

- Reflective vest

- Blanket or warm clothing

- Shovel, sand, or wheel chocks

WHILE DRIVING

Drive smoothly, without sudden braking or acceleration

Increase the distance between you and other vehicles

Use engine braking, not sudden braking

Slow down before entering a turn

Avoid snowdrifts, unplowed sections, and forest shadows

HOW TO AVOID GETTING STUCK

Do not drive into deep snow if you cannot see solid ground

Park on flat, well-maintained areas

Use the accelerator gently when starting off

Try starting off in 2nd gear

If in doubt, turn back

IF YOU DO GET STUCK

Stay calm – do not spin your wheels.

Clear the snow from the wheels and chassis.

Try to drive out by rocking the car back and forth.

Use sand, pads, or rugs.

If this does not work, stay in the car and protect yourself from the cold.

WHEN AND WHERE TO CALL FOR HELP

Call immediately if: - there has been an accident with injuries - there is a risk of hypothermia - you are trapped in a mountainous area - the road is completely impassable and dangerous

Important numbers:

112 – emergency line

158 – Czech Police

155 – Emergency medical services

150 – Fire department

1210 – Mountain rescue service

WHAT TO SAY WHEN CALLING

Be prepared to answer: - WHERE you are (town, road, landmark, GPS) - WHAT happened (accident, getting stuck, breakdown) - HOW MANY people are there and whether they are injured - WHAT the situation is (weather, visibility, road conditions)

Do not hang up until the operator tells you to.

REMEMBER

It is better to drive slowly than to take risks.

It is better to ask than to be left without help.