By Nnamdi Ikeh-Akabogu (FRSCN)
Let’s begin with the seemingly not-so-important part of our cars yet very vital when it comes to safety, most especially during the rainy season.
WINDSCREEN WIPER
A blade with a rubber edge that moves across a windscreen to make it clear of rain, snow, dirt, etc
Just like a man without a vision is a catastrophe going somewhere so is a car without good WIPER during the rainy season. Improve your safety this season by ensuring your windshield wipers are functioning properly.
HOW WINDSHIELD WIPERS WORK
Windshield wipers are generally attached to a single arm for most automobiles. The arms are attached to an electric motor that regulates the pivotal movement of the blade arms. A rubber wiper blade is inserted into the metal frame and it is responsible for wiping the window clean.
Other forms exist, like the Mercedes-Benz, Mono-blade, which is a single blade attached in the center. The single blade extends upward and down in a rectangular shape, covering more area than the traditional wiper blade motion.
Vehicles are now manufactured with optical rain sensor wipers, which detect the amount of rain on the windshield and respond accordingly. This automatic wiper adjusts its speed and frequency based on the amount of rain detected.
HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR WINDSHIELD WIPERS NEED REPLACING
If your wiper blades are exhibiting any of the four S’s; streaking, skipping, splitting, or squeaking, it is time for new windshield wipers. On average wiper blades should be replaced every six months to a year, depending on wear and tear, or when you notice a deterioration in visibility. Make a note in your calendar when six months have passed so you remember to check them.
It is often helpful to change the wiper blades before the rain so you have a fresh set to get you through the heavy rain-driving conditions.
LOOK FOR THE FOLLOWING SIGNS WHEN YOU INSPECT YOUR WIPER BLADES:
Detached arms: are there screws missing or loose on the piece attaching the frame to the arm? Broken or bent frame Disintegrated, or ripped rubber on wiper blade Metal corrosion around the joints Flexibility of arm; does it move easily and lie flat to the window? Is the rubber wiper secure in the frame, or is it loose? It is a good idea to check your windshield wipers as a part of your routine maintenance checks.
#RoadSafety is when Safe Driving Saves lives!
The traffic expert is DCC Nnamdi Ikeh-Akabogu, DCC Morning and Evaluation (M&E), Special Duties and External Relations (SEDER), FRCC HQ, Abuja
