Your December Winter-Readiness Playbook

December driving rewards preparation. Shorter daylight, cold starts, wet roads, and the season’s first true snows require deliberate habits. At FishingCreek Transportation, we treat winter readiness as a team sport: drivers, trainers, dispatch, and mechanics all play a coordinated role to keep routes safe and predictable. Whether you’re new behind the wheel or a seasoned pro, this December playbook will help you stay composed, confident, and on time.

1) Start with a Meticulous Pre-Trip

Cold magnifies minor issues. Build five extra minutes into December pre-trips and focus on:

• Tires & treads: Verify proper inflation and adequate tread depth.

• Fluids: Oil, coolant, and winter-blend washer fluid topped off.

• Battery & belts: Cold starts strain electrical systems—listen and look.

• Defrosters & heaters: Confirm strong airflow and quick windshield clearing.

• Lights & signals: Early dusk demands perfect visibility front and rear.

• Doors & exits: Cold can stiffen seals—ensure smooth operation.

2) Visibility Is Mission-Critical

Before rolling an inch, scrape and brush all glass and mirrors. Clean inside glass to reduce glare, and keep microfiber towels handy for fogging. Re-clear snow or slush during layovers; accumulated buildup can turn into an afternoon visibility problem. If precipitation begins mid-route, pull over in a safe location to restore clear sight lines—visibility beats schedule, every time.

3) Drive Like a Professional Pilot

Smooth inputs preserve traction. Ease into throttle, brake earlier and more gently, and double your following distance (or more). Read the road by watching tire spray from vehicles ahead; a sudden drop in spray can signal ice. Expect bridges and shaded curves to freeze first. Build extra time into turns and merges and avoid abrupt steering.

4) Approach Stops with Extra Margin

Curbs and shoulders can be rutted or slick. Roll in slowly and squarely, set hazards early, scan for pedestrians, and remind students to use handrails and walk—never run—on slick surfaces. If a stop is unsafe because of snow berms or poor visibility, notify dispatch; safety outranks routine.

5) Communicate Early, Briefly, and Often

A quick, precise radio call can prevent small slowdowns from becoming big delays. Report blocked stops, sudden icing, or visibility issues. Dispatch coordinates with schools and families; your clear intel keeps everyone safer and reduces stress on the route.

6) Keep the Bus—and Yourself—Winter-Ready

Stock your bus (and personal bag) with essentials: scraper/brush, microfiber towels, gloves, hat, flashlight, spare washer fluid, and a phone charger. Dress in layers and keep a bottle of water handy. Small comforts protect your focus over the course of a long, cold day.

7) Student Management = Safety

Calm students help you drive defensively. Greet riders, keep instructions short and consistent, and use your calm voice to set the tone after energetic stops or holiday events. If behavior escalates, follow protocol and lean on dispatch and school staff for support.

8) Learn from Each Storm

We debrief as a team after notable weather. Which intersections glazed over? Which hills required earlier braking? Shared observations become tomorrow’s best practices. Continuous learning is part of our safety culture.

New to December Driving?

You’ll receive winter-specific training and mentorship. Practice routes, shadow rides, and yard exercises build muscle memory before you’re solo. You will never be asked to drive beyond safe limits; we make conservative, coordinated decisions as conditions change.

December can be beautiful and safe when you prepare with intention. Follow these habits, lean on your team, and keep students smiling all month long.