Tipp of the Week: Clear the snow off your vehicles

Hello Tipp City! Marc the Cop here.

It looks like my “mild winter” has been fixed. Last week's snow brings us to this week's Tipp of the Week.

Thankfully, we did not get the predicted amount of snow for Tipp City.

It seems that everyone compares each snowstorm to the Blizzard of 1978. No one seems to compare the blanket of snow we got in the winter of 2004 when we had 18 inches.

For those who do not have the fortune of a covered parking space or a garage, we need to remember to take that extra time to clean off our vehicles before heading out on the roads.

Drivers must clear snow off their vehicles before driving to ensure safety, comply with laws, and maintain visibility on the road. Snow-covered vehicles pose significant risks not only to the driver but also to other road users. Here are several reasons why this practice is essential:

1. Ensures Clear Visibility: Snow and ice on the windshield, windows, and mirrors severely limit a driver’s visibility. Even minor patches can create blind spots, making it difficult to notice other vehicles, pedestrians, or hazards. Poor visibility increases the likelihood of accidents, particularly in hazardous winter conditions.

2. Prevents Snow and Ice Hazards: Snow piled on the roof of a car can become a serious danger when the vehicle starts moving. Wind and speed can cause snow to fly off and land on the windshields of other cars, obstructing their vision and leading to potential collisions. Ice chunks are even more dangerous; they can cause significant damage to vehicles and injuries to drivers or pedestrians.

3. Improves Vehicle Performance: Excess snow and ice add unnecessary weight to your vehicle, impacting fuel efficiency and handling. Snow blocking the headlights or taillights also reduces the effectiveness of these essential safety features, making it harder for other drivers to see you in low-visibility conditions.

4. Demonstrates Consideration for Others: Driving with snow or ice on your car shows a lack of regard for the safety of others. Flying debris can startle or harm other drivers, causing accidents. Taking the time to clear your vehicle demonstrates responsible and considerate driving behavior.

5. Remember to clear off your vehicle registration: For some, the tags are mounted on the vehicle where snow will not build up. In the case of my F-350, my tag is on the step bumper, which gets covered when it snows.

Clearing snow off your vehicle is a critical safety practice that protects everyone on the road. It ensures better visibility, prevents hazards caused by flying snow or ice, and helps you comply with the law. By taking a few minutes to remove snow and ice, you contribute to safer winter driving for yourself and others.

Remember the 9 PM routine! The Nine PM routine is a nightly reminder to residents to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their vehicle doors, lock the doors to their residences, turn on exterior lights, and activate all alarms and security systems.

That is all for this week! Please be safe and care for one another.

I'll see you in church on Sunday!

Sgt. Marc Basye (Ret.)

Do you have a suggestion for the Tipp of the Week? Your input is valuable to us. You can email me at Marcthecop@tippgazette.com.

The opinions and statements in this column are those of the author, who is not affiliated with any law enforcement agency. This column is for entertainment purposes only. Persons referred to may be fictional for comedic purposes only.