You should use gears instead
of brakes to slow down and watch for icy patches on shady parts of
the road, through cuttings, on bridges and on winding stretches
where ice may have formed over a thin layer of snow.
When travelling in Alpine
Areas, Snow Chains Must be Carried. In Victoria it is
Compulsory
for
All vehicles to carry chains, during the declared
Snow Season.
Authorities require that they
be fitted when conditions demand, so check chains are not damaged or
have parts missing and practice fitting chains before you travel.
It's too late to learn at the roadside in a blizzard or freezing
rain. Make sure chains are packed for easy access.
Hire chains are readily
available and it is best to get them close to your destination in
case of any problems. If you are not familiar with the fitting of
chains ask the Hire Shop to give you full instructions. When chains
are fitted to your vehicle drive slowly (eg. no more than 30/40kph.) and carefully to avoid tyre
and vehicle damage.
Chains are to be fitted to
the two driving wheels. I.E. Front wheel on a front wheel drive;
rear wheel on a rear wheel drive; usually front wheels on a four
wheel drive. Always refer to the manufacturers handbook for correct
placement of chains
When fitting, pull off to the
left of the road as far as possible. Use a chain fitting bay if
available, make sure your vehicle is visible from both directions
It is important to only park
in designated parking areas and to follow the directions of the
parking attendants.
Don't apply the handbrake.
moisture can freeze cables and brake linings. Instead chock the
wheels and angle the front wheel into the kerbside. Leave the car in
Gear or Park.
Remove all snow from the roof
of your vehicle. It is
illegal and
dangerous to leave
snow on the roof whilst driving.
Clear all ice from the
windscreen and mirrors before driving off. Using the air conditioner
on the windscreen will help to demist.
If leaving you car for
overnight or longer lift you windscreen wipers slightly off the
windscreen use a plastic bag or a small stick to keep just off the
glass
Have in your vehicle in a
handy spot the following items.
Small spade, tow rope,
ground sheet, gloves, old waterproof clothing, torch( check
batteries), wheel chocks, first aid kit, towel
Ensure you have enough Anti
freeze in your vehicle, especially if staying on mountain. Failure
to do so can be very costly.
Most service stations close
to the ski fields have alpine diesel, ensure you top up close to the
ski fields. Alpine diesel is a mix that prevent diesel from gelling
up in very cold conditions
