Delhi, The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forewarned Delhiites of dense fog for the next five days, with temperatures hovering between seven to eight degrees Celsius. The advisory extends to Haryana and Chandigarh, cautioning specifically for late and early hours until December 31.
Road Safety Advisory:
In response to the looming foggy conditions, the weather department advocates precautionary measures for road travelers. The advisory includes using fog lights and staying abreast of airline, railway, and state transport schedules. The IMD emphasizes the need for caution while driving or utilizing any mode of transportation.
Safety Tips for Foggy Conditions:
1. Headlights Strategy: Use low-beam headlights instead of high beams for enhanced visibility. Employ tail-lights and blinkers, maintaining a safe distance to aid recognition by other drivers.
2. Avoid Glare: Steer clear of high-beam lights, which can create glare and hinder visibility on the road.
3. Minimize Distractions: Turn off electronic devices, roll down windows slightly to hear surrounding traffic, and reduce distractions.
4. Moderate Speed: Check and moderate your vehicle’s speed during fog. Reduce speed gradually, avoid overtaking or changing lanes, and allow extra time for your journey.
5. Fog Lights and Alignment: Turn on fog lights if available, or attach yellow cellophane paper to headlights for improved visibility. Drive closer to the roadside and follow road markings.
6. Maintain Distance: Keep a considerable distance between vehicles to allow ample reaction time in emergencies or sudden braking.
7. Visibility Aids: Activate the heater to prevent window condensation, ensuring clear visibility. Confirm windshield cleanliness and functional light indicators.
8. Horn Usage: Use the horn while changing lanes or negotiating turns during foggy conditions.
9. Emergency Protocol: If visibility diminishes drastically, consider pulling over, activate emergency flashers alongside low-beam headlights. In extreme conditions, halt the vehicle, switch off all lights except hazard flashing lights, engage the emergency brake, and ensure active tail lights.
10. Route Selection: Prefer familiar routes with known road conditions during dense fog, avoiding unfamiliar or shortcut paths for safer navigation.
The advisory comes on the heels of Uttar Pradesh witnessing four deaths and six injuries in separate road accidents due to reduced visibility caused by dense fog. The department’s safety guidelines aim to mitigate potential accidents and ensure safe travel during challenging weather conditions.
