Everybody who’s lived in Iowa for any amount of time knows hot summers and freezing cold winters are a fact of life – well, at least they usually are. Despite our strange weather patterns lately, snow and cold weather will eventually happen. There are a few things you can do to make sure your vehicle will be ready when that day comes.
- Check the antifreeze concentration and fill level. Use an antifreeze hydrometer, available at any auto parts store, to check the mixture. It should be close to 50 percent water to 50 percent antifreeze for optimal, year round protection.
- Change your oil. Most auto manufacturers recommend a lighter weight oil for the cold weather months. This allows for easier starting in sub-zero temperatures and less wear and tear on the engine. Check your owner’s manual or your mechanic for the recommended winter oil.
- Change your windshield wipers. Ten to 20 dollars is a small price to pay to make sure you can see the road. Winter wiper blades are also available and do a great job when the going really gets rough.
- Have a battery load test performed by your mechanic. This will tell you if your battery has worn out. Sub-zero weather and a worn out battery make for a very frustrated ISU student after a long day of classes.
- Make sure you have all-season or winter tires that are in good condition on your car. They’ll help you stay on the road as you burst through the snowbanks on your way to that 8 a.m. calculus exam.
Parking on Campus:
Known as the Winter Storm Parking Plan, this plan helps to direct drivers during severe winter conditions. If your designated spot or parking lot has not been cleared, these three alternate lots will be clear by 7:30 a.m.
- Southwest corner of Iowa State Center (Lots A3, A4, B5 and B6)
- North of Molecular Biology (Lots 29 and 30)
- North of the General Services Building (Lot 41)
- All valid ISU parking permits will be honored in the alternate parking areas during the Winter Storm Parking Plan.
- Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to use CyRide during adverse weather conditions.
For more Information, go to: www.dps.iastate.edu/parking/winter_storm_plan.html
Parking In Ames:
- Snow routes are marked by red, blue and white signs.
- Snow ordinance goes into effect if 2 or more inches falls.
- When ordinance is in effect, it will be announced on TV Channel 12, KASI – 1430 AM, and KCCQ – 105.1 FM.
- When ordinance is in effect, cars must be moved immediately.
- Cars that are not moved will be ticketed and towed.
- Snow ordinance remains in effect until all streets are clear AND it has stopped snowing.
- The Ames Public Works Department has a Snow Desk hot line: 515-239-5543
For more information, go to: www.cityofames.org/AboutAmes/SnowRoutePage.htm
Emergency gear: 10 items every traveler should consider packing during the Winter
- A flashlight with spare batteries in case of a night emergency.
- Warm blankets will help conserve heat and your car’s fuel.
- Warning triangle: A set of three will help alert other motorists to your situation.
- Jumper cables: You never know when you’ll need a jump or can help someone else out.
- Wooden matches stored in a waterproof container are more dependable than paper matches or a lighter.
- Candles offer another heat and light source that will spare your batteries and fuel.
- A tow strap: Once again, this item can be a life saver for you or another motorist.
- Non-perishable food: If you do become stranded, MREs are an excellent high-energy non-perishable food source.
- Sand/Kitty litter gives added traction if your vehicle gets stuck in the snow.
- A shovel: There are a number of foldable car shovels available if you need to dig out of the snow.
