Hello Tipp City! Marc the Cop here,

I can’t seem to wrap my mind around the fact we are headed into August! This year, it appears that the summer has flown by. Driving in summer rain storms can be challenging. Let's discuss what we need to do when hitting the road.

Driving in adverse weather conditions requires heightened awareness and precaution to ensure safety on the road. Weather, such as rain and fog, can drastically reduce visibility and traction, making it challenging to maintain control of your vehicle.

Here are some essential tips to help you navigate these conditions safely.

1. Slow Down and Increase Following Distance. Reducing speed is one of the most critical adjustments when driving in adverse weather. Wet roads can significantly decrease tire traction, increasing stopping distances. Maintaining a more significant following distance or space cushion between your vehicle and the one in front of you is crucial, allowing more time to react if sudden braking is needed. Also, asphalt is slippery most after a sudden rainstorm hits.

 2. Use Headlights! Visibility can be significantly reduced in fog, rain, or snow conditions. Use your vehicle’s headlights, not high beams, to increase visibility. High beams can reflect off fog or heavy rain, causing glare and reducing visibility. Ensure your headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers are in good working condition before heading out. Windshield wipers are one of the most overlooked maintenance items.

3. Avoid Sudden Movements. Abrupt actions such as sudden braking, acceleration, or sharp steering can cause a loss of control on slippery surfaces. Instead, apply brakes gently and steer smoothly. This approach helps maintain traction and control, especially when navigating curves or changing lanes.

 4. Stay Updated on Weather Conditions. Before heading out, check the latest weather forecasts and road conditions. If possible, plan your route to avoid areas heavily affected by adverse weather. Sometimes, it might be safer to delay your trip until conditions improve.

5. Know How to Handle Skids. If your vehicle begins to skid, remain calm and avoid overreacting. Steer gently in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can worsen the skid. Familiarize yourself with the proper techniques for handling different skids, such as front-wheel, rear-wheel, and four-wheel skids.

6. Keep Your Vehicle Well-Maintained. Ensure your vehicle is equipped to handle adverse weather by regularly checking tire tread, brakes, and windshield wipers. Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze and to ensure you have enough fuel for unexpected detours or delays. Following these tips and remaining vigilant can enhance your safety while driving in adverse weather conditions. Prioritizing caution and preparedness will help you navigate challenges and reach your destination safely.

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 exterior lights, and activate all alarms and security systems.

That is all for this week! Please be safe, care for one another, and I'll see you in church on Sunday!

Sgt. Marc Basye (Ret.)

Do you have a suggestion for the Tipp of the Week? 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.