Fog can
be thought of as a cloud at ground level. It forms when the temperature drops to
the dew point (the temperature at which air is saturated), and invisible water
vapor in the air condenses to form suspended water droplets. Fog can reduce
visibility to 1/4 mile or less, creating hazardous driving conditions. If you
can't postpone your trip until dense fog lifts -- usually by late morning or the
afternoon -- follow these tips:
* Drive with lights on low beam. High
beams will only be reflected back off the fog and actually impair visibility
even more.
* Reduce your speed -- and watch your speedometer. Fog creates
a visual illusion of slow motion when you may actually be speeding.
*
Listen for traffic you cannot see. Open your window a little, to hear
better.
* Use wipers and defrosters as necessary for maximum
visibility.
* Use the right edge of the road or painted road markings as
a guide.
* Be patient. Do not pass lines of traffic.
* Do not stop
on a freeway or heavily traveled road. If your car stalls or becomes disabled,
turn your vehicle's lights off, and take your foot off of the brake pedal.
People tend to follow tail lights when driving in fog. Move away from the
vehicle to avoid injury.
Sources: National Weather Service, Wisconsin
Department of Transportation |
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