Car Maintenance

Drivers Advised to Have Emergency Kits & Check Vehicles for Winter

When weather makes an appearance, especially at the start of the season, it leads to a significant increase in driving incidents. Trooper Jeremy Thorson of the Washington State Patrol sheds light on this issue. Many drivers aren't accustomed to driving in such conditions, and after a few weeks of relatively mild weather following a big ice storm, they are ill-prepared. Trooper Weber, too, has witnessed numerous car crashes. He emphasizes that driving too fast for road conditions is a common cause, along with distracted driving. A horrific collision in the Mattawa area a few days ago resulted in a fatality, caused by a driver looking down at a device and hitting another car. This clearly shows the dangers of distracted driving. Weber recommends that every driver have an emergency kit in their car containing water, protein, and a phone charger. Even if you don't have one, having a charger for your cell phone in the car is essential as you might find yourself stranded on the side of the road and need that charge to get help or keep yourself occupied. Boredom can actually have a significant impact on a driver's state of mind.

Headlights and Road Conditions

One Action News Reporter observed while driving along Highway 12. He noticed a large number of cars without their headlights on. Additionally, the snow and road conditions became more severe near Rimrock Lake. It is crucial to ensure that your headlights are on when driving in such weather. If you choose to drive across Snoqualmie Pass and chains are required but you don't have them, it is advisable to turn around. Trooper Weber warns that there are troopers on duty, and they will stop and ticket those who don't comply.

Preparing for the Cold

Trooper Weber reminds people to make sure their windshield wiper fluid is ready for the cold. Checking the brakes is also essential to ensure safe driving. In cold weather, the wiper fluid can freeze, and faulty brakes can lead to dangerous situations. By taking these simple precautions, drivers can enhance their safety on the road.

This Winter: Ensure Vehicle Service for Winter Driving

During this holiday season, as we find ourselves spending a significant amount of time in our cars, it becomes crucial to ensure their proper functioning. Kenny Westfall, the owner of K&M Auto, emphasizes the importance of getting our cars serviced to navigate through the winter months smoothly.

Ensure a Smooth Winter Drive with Car Servicing

Common Winter Car Issues

During the winter months, one of the most common problems faced by vehicles is related to heating. As Kenny Westfall mentioned, the heating system often goes down, with issues such as actuators for the heaters not working properly, preventing them from maintaining the desired temperature. Radiators also tend to give trouble during this time. It is essential to be vigilant and take your vehicle in for general service during winter to catch such issues early on.Another aspect to pay attention to is the condition of the brakes. During the cold weather, brakes may act up, posing a safety risk. Additionally, heaters not working as efficiently as usual can make the winter driving experience uncomfortable. Regular servicing helps in identifying and addressing these problems before they escalate.

Importance of Winter Car Servicing

Getting your car serviced during winter is not just a routine task; it is a necessary precaution. By having your vehicle checked and serviced, you can avoid breakdowns on the road, especially during the harsh winter conditions. It ensures that your car's engine, heating system, and other components are in optimal condition, providing you with a reliable and comfortable ride.Moreover, timely servicing can save you from costly repairs in the long run. It allows the mechanic to detect any potential issues and address them promptly, preventing minor problems from turning into major ones. This not only saves you money but also gives you peace of mind during the holiday season when you are on the go.

Taking Care of Your Vehicle

As we spend more time in our cars during the holiday season, it is our responsibility to take good care of them. Regular maintenance, such as checking the fluid levels, tire pressure, and battery, can go a long way in keeping your vehicle in good shape. In addition to servicing during winter, it is advisable to follow a regular maintenance schedule throughout the year.By being proactive in taking care of your car, you can enjoy a hassle-free driving experience and make the most of the holiday season. Remember, a well-maintained car is not only safe but also enhances the overall enjoyment of your journey.
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Ngatjila Secures Kathleen Valley Light Vehicle Maintenance Contract

Liontown's decision to award its Kathleen Valley light vehicle maintenance workshop contract to Ngatjila, a 100 percent Tjiwarl business, marks a significant milestone. This partnership not only brings economic opportunities but also strengthens the cultural connection of the Tjiwarl people to their traditional lands.

Empowering Tjiwarl Businesses and Strengthening Cultural Bonds

Ngatjila's Vision and Mission

Ngatjila, a company owned and operated by four brothers, is dedicated to delivering exceptional maintenance services to the mining industry of Western Australia. Their aim is to provide top-notch solutions while creating a positive impact on the local community. By engaging with Ngatjila, Liontown is enabling Tjiwarl people to operate businesses on their ancestral lands, ensuring the continuity of cultural practices.

As Ngatjila managing director Joel Maitland stated, "We will provide for our family while creating opportunities for our people to thrive. By positively impacting maintenance at Kathleen Valley and subsequently other clients, we aim to build a strong foundation for job security, ensuring that our business and the people we serve continue to prosper for generations to come."

The Significance of the Contract

The Kathleen Valley lithium mine is located on Tjiwarl land, and Liontown's commitment to respecting the heritage of the Traditional Owners is evident. By partnering with Ngatjila, they are working closely with the Tjiwarl community to protect their traditions and create positive social and economic outcomes. This collaboration not only benefits the mining industry but also contributes to the overall development of the region.

Liontown's signing ceremony at its Perth office marked the start of this important partnership. It symbolizes their shared vision of building a sustainable future through local collaborations.

Exploring Team Belongingness and Worker Wellbeing

In addition to the maintenance contract, Liontown recently partnered with Edith Cowan University's (ECU) Mental Awareness, Respect and Safety (MARS) Centre. This initiative aims to explore how team belongingness can influence the wellbeing of workers on remote mine sites, including those at Kathleen Valley. By focusing on mental health and safety, Liontown is taking a proactive approach to ensure the well-being of its employees.

This partnership with ECU showcases Liontown's commitment to going beyond traditional business practices and creating a holistic work environment.

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