Central Russia experiences sudden weather swings that catch many drivers off guard: one day the city is blanketed in snow, and the next it can be lashed with heavy rain. That rapid thaw followed by a drop in temperature is the most dangerous, because everything turns slick and vehicles can get stuck in ice.
Auto expert Mikhail Kolodochkin stresses the importance of ahead-of-time preparation. Rather than hoping for the best, he recommends getting a car ready for cold snaps and wet cycles well before they arrive.
Among his practical tips, he starts with sealing. Treat the rubber door and trunk seals with silicone grease so moisture is less likely to seep in and freeze the hinges shut.
If a door sticks in the morning, a firm push from the outside can often break the crust that formed on the latch or frame. A careful application of pressure can free it without damaging the seal or the metal components.
To prevent windshield wipers from freezing to the glass, it helps to lift them the night before. If that step was missed and travel cannot be postponed, do not force the wipers while the engine is cold. Instead, start the engine, arm yourself with a windshield scraper, and gently work the blades free. As the glass warms, the wipers will loosen with less strain on the motor and linkage.
If automatic folding mirrors are prone to sticking in freezing conditions, turning them off until temperatures rise is a sensible precaution. It protects the mechanism and prevents an inconvenient malfunction when a quick departure is needed.
Another helpful practice is to leave the car in a secure parking area for a few minutes after retrieval. Opening the doors and letting out some warm, moist air helps reduce interior frost buildup and lowers the chance of frost forming on the glass and door seals. Small acts of patience now save time later during a chilly morning drive.
Traffic safety supply drive in seven thousand tire sizes
Public safety depends on reliable equipment, and keeping fleets ready is essential for streets, emergency services, and humanitarian missions alike. In a coordinated effort, a charitable initiative is raising funds to purchase tires for the vehicles of law enforcement, emergency teams, and humanitarian responders operating in conflict-affected areas. Ambulances, emergency service units, and aid convoys depend on dependable tires to maintain mobility and reach those in need. Contributions can be made on the dedicated collection page, supporting the ongoing readiness of these critical services.
Note: safety organizations emphasize that timely maintenance and preparedness reduce the risk of incidents during severe weather and help ensure that help can arrive where it is needed, when it is needed.