Chris Banyas
Staff Writer
Wintertime can bring a variety of issues that we don’t have to worry about during the rest of the year, and many of these issues affect our vehicles and overall safety.
Campus Public Safety’s mission is “the safety and security of our students, faculty and staff – as well as the university’s campus in general.”
However, some of the services Public Safety offers might surprise you.
Jump-starting vehicles is one of these, and is something that Public Safety officers find themselves doing on a regular basis this time of year.
The total number of vehicles jump-started by Public Safety in November totaled 20, while as of Dec. 10, the total for the month was already up to 33.
“If you’ve got a bad battery, you’re going to find out about it this time of year, especially when the weather gets down below zero,” said Stephen Chatterton, director of public safety.
In addition to jump-starting vehicles, Public Safety can also assist individuals who find themselves stuck in the snow.
“Our vehicles have tow straps. The officer will look at the situation, and if we think we can pull them out safely without damage to their vehicle or to ours, then we’ll give them a hand,” said Chatterton.
Officers can also help individuals who accidentally lock keys inside cars, and will help out by giving rides to students who have a long way to walk, especially in the frigid temperatures and later in the day.
Checking for things such as antifreeze levels, proper tire inflation and making sure that car batteries test well can all help individuals avoid breakdowns in the winter but common sense is most important.
“Slow it down. That’s the biggest issue. You want to slow down when the snow hits,” said Public Safety Sgt. Kristopher Bartschi. “Stopping distances increase dramatically. Wear your seatbelt.”
Dressing warm and bringing along a small survival pack with essentials such as food and water are not bad ideas either.
Cold temperatures can be the switch that sets off any number of automobile issues, from dead batteries to burst hoses or more expensive problems.
Nick Benson, a recent graduate of the automotive technology program at Idaho State University, offered up some wisdom for treating your car right.
“Tire pressure and brakes should be checked. Always make sure your fluids are at the correct level,” said Benson. “A radiator flush once a year can help with heat circulation, so keep that in consideration.”
Starting a vehicle and allowing it to warm up for a short while before driving can also be helpful.
“I personally let my car warm up for about 5 to 10 minutes in the morning. This gets the oil flowing through to spots in the engine that need the lubrication,” said Benson.
“Maintenance can never be a bad thing any time of the year. Always make a point to do routine checks to upkeep your car,” said Benson.
If you need to contact Public Safety, call 282-2515 or email ude.usinull@efasbup.
