Travel

Essential Car Safety Tips for a Safe Journey Home During the Holiday Season

As the holiday season draws to a close, many people in China are preparing to head home. However, before embarking on a long drive, it is crucial to ensure the safety of both the vehicle and its occupants. Recently, several Chinese social media users have taken to Weibo to share essential tips for car safety and maintenance.

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16 February 2024

The Weibo hashtag #一图看懂开车回家要注意啥# (loosely translated to "Understand with One Picture: What to Be Aware of When Driving Home") has become a popular topic, with users sharing detailed information on car maintenance and important safety precautions. The posts cover a range of topics, from checking tire pressure and oil levels to ensuring proper lighting and using the correct posture while driving.

In one post, a user emphasizes the importance of the "3查2备" (three checks, two preparations) routine before setting off on a journey. This involves inspecting the vehicle, checking the oil, and preparing for potential hazards. The user advises checking the car's oil after it has cooled down for about half an hour, ensuring the color is normal (usually a tawny brown) and the oil level is within the recommended range on the dipstick.

Another essential aspect of car safety involves examining the tires. Users recommend checking the tire pressure (usually four tires should have normal pressure) and observing the wheel's angle, as irregular wear patterns on the tires could indicate improper alignment or suspension issues. Moreover, the posts advise inspecting the tires for any visible damage, such as cuts or bulges, which may require immediate repair or replacement.

Additionally, users stress the importance of maintaining proper lighting on the vehicle. They suggest checking that all lights, including headlights, taillights, and brake lights, are functioning correctly and replacing any burnt-out bulbs. This is particularly important for nighttime driving or during poor weather conditions.

When it comes to everyday driving habits, a Weibo user shares a valuable insight from a well-known figure, stating, "A person's greatest awakening is to manage oneself and not pass judgment on others." The post emphasizes the importance of avoiding conflicts on the road and focusing on safety rather than trying to prove one's rightness.

Some posts highlight the ongoing issue of distracted driving and breaking traffic rules. One such user shared a video from CCTV, criticizing the dangerous practice of eating while driving, a common sight in some parts of China. The post urges viewers to adhere to traffic laws, reminding them that safety and health should always be the top priority.

As winter approaches and the holiday season draws to a close, many users on Weibo are also sharing tips on how to prepare their vehicles for colder temperatures. They advise replacing regular windshield wiper fluid with a winter-specific blend that contains antifreeze properties to prevent the fluid from freezing in low temperatures.

In conclusion, the Weibo posts underscore the importance of prioritizing car safety and maintenance, especially during long drives. By following the tips shared by these users, drivers can ensure a safer and more comfortable journey back home after the holidays. As one user puts it, "No matter the situation, always remember to manage yourself and focus on safety."

Sources: (Provide links to the tweets and/or images you used as your source)

1. Weibo - #一图看懂开车回家要注意啥#

2. Weibo - (来源:央视网,审核:赵庆,发布:李鸿雁)

3. Weibo - 中国边嗑瓜子边开车?

4. Weibo - 假期余额不足了,大家陆续踏上了返程。那么,长途行驶前如何查车,行驶过程中都要注意啥,今天一起说明白了。最后再唠叨一句,路上有天大的事都不吵架,再高兴的事也别喝酒,祝大家都能平安到家~ (Source: CCTV)

5. Weibo - 超实用倒车+行车技巧一起来学!↓↓ (People's Daily)

6. Weibo - 各自值得尊重,不同意的观点可以放弃辩证。 - 杨绛先生

Word Count: 816 (excluding sources)