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Winter Storm Generates High ERS Call Volumes, Reports AAA Michigan

12 December 2000

Winter Storm Generates High ERS Call Volumes, Reports AAA Michigan

    DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 11 The first major storm of the
winter season has generated a high level of calls for Emergency Road Service
(ERS), according to AAA Michigan.
    As of 2:30 p.m., AAA Michigan ERS trucks had helped 2,271 stranded
motorists across Michigan, well above normal levels.  A normal 24-hour period
averages 2,000 calls.  The primary reasons for the calls are spinouts.
    Since road conditions are expected to worsen throughout the evening,
motorists should be sure to follow these driving tips:
    *  Accelerate slowly so wheels don't spin.
    *  Anticipate traffic lights and potential dangers.  Adjust your speed,
increase stopping distance between cars and change lanes to avoid trouble.
    *  Improve visibility by clearing snow and ice from the entire car.
    *  Drive with headlights on low-beam.
    *  Avoid hard braking.  The best technique is "threshold," or "squeeze"
braking.  Apply the brakes firmly to a point just short of lock-up, then ease
off the pedal slightly.  Steady pressure is better than pumping the brakes.
If your car has antilock brakes, apply continuous, firm pressure.
    *  In a skid, ease off the accelerator and don't lock up the brakes.
Carefully steer in the direction you want to go and straighten the wheel as
soon as the car starts heading in the desired direction.
    *  Carry a winter survival kit consisting of:  a cellular phone; small bag
of abrasive material such as sand, salt or cat litter for traction; a snow
shovel; snow brush; traction mats; flashlight; booster cables, blanket and
appropriate winter clothing, including boots.
    *  If you become stranded, be sure to keep the exhaust tail pipe clear of
snow.  Run the engine no longer than it takes to provide heat.