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Safety Bulletin - Preventing Driver Injuries this fall and winter

Oct. 16 2020 Miscellaneous By McCandless Idealease

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Our weekly Safety Bulletin, brought to you by Idealease Truck Leasing and Rental, details important reminders about preparing for the fall and winter seasons, as well as information on safety regulations. 

Click on the image below to view the entire October 16th Edition and/or SIGN UP to receive these weekly fleet safety tips via email. 

In this week's bulletin, find information on the following:

  • Preventing Driver Injuries This Fall and Winter

    • Slip/Trip injuries are the most common injuries for drivers each year - most of which occur during the winter months. Working in snow and ice requires full attention and awareness. Here are a few reminders:
      1. Always wear proper footwear. A full support leather shoe with a rugged non-slip sole. Use non-slip covers on shoe (Yak Trax, etc.)
      2. SLOW DOWN never be in a hurry.
      3. Always watch where you walk. Snow can accumulate on top of ice in and around truck parking areas.
      4. Take small steps and check your footing with each step.
      5. Look for ice on all handrails and hand grabs before using them.
      6. ALWAYS use gloves for better grip.
      7. ALWAYS use three points of contacts when exiting/entering your tractor or trailer or getting on the catwalk behind the cab, ALWAYS.
      8. Always use your seat belt.
      9. SLOW DOWN!

  • Preparing for the Colder Weather Ahead:

    • Fuel additives to prevent jelling should be added anytime the ambient temperature is below 32.
    • Power Service Products:
      • The "Red Bottle" is Power Service 911 and is to be used ONLY when the fuel in a unit has been jelled. 911 is NOT to be used as a fuel additive that you would regularly put in the fuel tank to keep the fuel from jelling.
      • Power Service Diesel Fuel Supplement + Cetane "White Bottle" is to be added to the fuel at each fill when the ambient temperature is < 30 degrees F. This is the additive you should use on a regular basis during the winter months.

      • SAVE ON POWER SERVICE PRODUCTS - SHOP OUR PARTS SPECIALS NOW

  • How to Make a Cold Weather Survival Kit

    Everyone should carry a winter survival kit in their truck for emergency situations! It can definitely save your life!

Items to include:

  1. Shovel
  2. Windshield scraper
  3. Small broom
  4. Flashlight with extra batteries
  5. Battery powered radio
  6. Water
  7. Snack Food and energy bars
  8. Raisins and mini candy bars
  9. Matches and small candles
  10. Disposable Hand/Foot warmers
  11. Extra hats, socks, and mittens
  12. First aid kit with pocketknife
  13. Necessary medications
  14. Blankets or sleeping bag
  15. Tow chain or rope
  16. Road salt, sand, or cat litter for traction
  17. Booster cables
  18. Fluorescent distress flag and whistle to attract attention
  19. Cell phone adapter to plug into lighter and or extra battery supply


  • 'TIS DEER SEASON!

    • Now is the time to remind drivers of the dangers of animals in the roadways.
    • IIHS estimates 1.5 million deer related accidents occur each year, causing $1.1 billion in vehicle damage. 
    • While deer account for 75% of accidents involving animals, cattle, horses, dogs and bears have also led to fatalities in collisions.
    • Pay extra attention in darkness, dusk and dawn
    • Be vigilant and especially in those areas that are prone to animal crossing.


  • FMCSA Grants Pulsating Brake-Activated Light Exemption for Tanker Trucks

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is granting National Tank Truck Carriers Inc.’s (NTTC) application for a limited five-year exemption to allow tank trailer operators to install a red or amber brake-activated pulsating lamp in the upper center position or an upper dual outboard position on the rear of the trailers, in addition to the steady-burning brake lamps required by federal regulations. FMCSA has determined that “granting the exemption would likely achieve a level of safety equivalent to or greater than the level of safety provided by the regulation.” This exemption is applicable through Oct. 8, 2025.


*The Idealease Safety Bulletin is provided for Idealease locations and their customers and is not to be construed as a complete or exhaustive source of compliance or safety information. The Idealease Safety Bulletin is advisory in nature and does not warrant, guarantee, or otherwise certify compliance with laws, regulations, requirements, or guidelines of any local, state, or Federal agency and/or governing body, or industry standards.