Winter has finally arrived and with winter comes cold temperatures, snow, and ice. This week and into the next, reports show that cold air will engulf the areas that we operate in. Dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills will likely last through Christmas weekend and into the early part of next week. These cold temperatures are hard on equipment and can cause issues such as equipment not starting and other mechanical issues.All Truck would like to remind our employees of the following best practices to reduce downtime and injuries: Equipment <ul><li>Pre-Trips: Make sure that you pre-trip your equipment thoroughly. Noticing issues early and getting them addressed immediately will help to avoid breakdowns.</li></ul> <ul><li>Starting Equipment: If you have trouble starting your tractor, please do not crank the engine for more than 15 seconds. If the engine has not turned over after making 3 attempts, contact the Maintenance Department for assistance.</li></ul> <ul><li>Air Tanks: Air tanks must be drained at the end of each trip to verify that the air system is free of water. This is done by pulling the cord that is attached to the air tank or opening the bleeder valve.</li></ul> <ul><li>Fuel: Make sure that you fill and top off your fuel tanks at the end of your day. This will help prevent the tanks from gelling.</li></ul> <ul><li>Engine Heaters: Plug in engine heaters at the end of your day. This must be done while the engine is still hot.</li></ul> Driver Prep <ul><li>Dress Properly: Wear at least 3 layers of loose-fitting clothing, insulated gloves and boots, cover your head and any exposed skin. </li></ul> <ul><li>Stay Dry: Carry extra clothes. Moisture can increase heat loss from the body.</li></ul> <ul><li>Food and Drinks: Carry extra food and water on the truck and when possible, drink warm liquids.</li></ul> <ul><li>Limit Exposure: Take frequent breaks in warm, dry areas.</li></ul> <ul><li>Cold Stress: know the symptoms; reddening of skin, tingling, pain, swelling, leg cramps, numbness, and blisters are all signs of cold stress.</li></ul> Injury Prevention <ul><li>Look for Ice: Scan the area and look for ice before exiting a truck, or even a building in cold weather. Scanning area for an extra moment or two can prevent you from falling. If there is ice on the windshield there is ice on the steps.&nbsp;</li></ul> <ul><li>3 Points of Contact: When exiting and entering the truck, always face the truck and use 3 points of contact.</li></ul> <ul><li>Look Up: Look for snow buildup at the back of the trailer before opening and closing trailer doors. Us caution, you never know when a large piece of snow and ice will fall from the top of a trailer.</li></ul> <ul><li>Less is More: Equipment becomes difficult to use when it is cold. If a task becomes difficult to perform, then ask for assistance. Over exertion could lead to a lifetime of pain and regret.</li></ul> <ul><li>Recognize Hazards: Do not ignore potential hazards. Slow down and stay focused on the task at hand.</li></ul> Driving <ul><li>Get Well Rested: You will be more alert, able to identify and react to changing road conditions more quickly. You will also think more clearly and therefore be a safer driver.</li></ul> <ul><li>Traffic: reduce your speed and do not try to keep up with traffic. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid passing other vehicles.</li></ul> <ul><li>Icy Roads: Bridges and overpasses freeze before roadways and ramp are the place to be treated be treated for ice. Slow down and increase your following distance. It can take up to 10 times the normal distance to stop your truck. Always avoid sudden steering, breaking, and acceleration movements.</li></ul> <ul><li>Snow: Dry or powdery snow usually provides more stability than wet or slushy snow. Never use your engine brakes. Slow down and increase your following distance and leave yourself an out. Always avoid sudden steering, breaking, and acceleration movements.</li></ul> Please drive safely and make to your most important stop, home.

Winter has finally arrived and with winter comes cold temperatures, snow, and ice. This week and into the next, reports show that cold air will engulf the areas that we operate in. Dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills will likely last through Christmas weekend and into the early part of next week. These cold temperatures are hard on equipment and can cause issues such as equipment not starting and other mechanical issues.  All Truck would like to remind our employees of the following best practices to reduce downtime and injuries.

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