As winter conditions intensify, drivers are urged to adapt not only their behaviour on the road, but also the small routines they follow before starting their vehicle. One simple action, often overlooked, can make a meaningful difference for both animal safety and vehicle protection.
During the winter months, particularly in the early morning hours, cold weather pushes many animals to seek warmth wherever they can find it. In recent weeks, harsh conditions have once again highlighted how winter can disrupt daily life, from severe flooding to heavy snowfall and sharp drops in temperature across parts of Greece.
While the focus rightly remains on safe driving practices such as using appropriate tyres, carrying snow chains where required, maintaining safe distances, and driving cautiously on wet or icy roads, experts stress that driver awareness should begin even before getting behind the wheel.
One recommended habit is lightly tapping the car’s hood before starting the engine. This small gesture creates enough noise to alert any animals that may be sheltering inside the engine compartment.
In cold weather, small animals such as cats, squirrels, and other mammals are often drawn to the residual warmth of a parked car’s engine. In many cases, they may be asleep or hidden among mechanical components and unaware of the driver’s presence.
Starting the engine under these circumstances can lead to serious injury or death for the animals, as moving parts such as belts and chains are activated immediately once the engine starts.
By tapping the hood beforehand, drivers give animals a chance to escape safely, significantly reducing the risk of harm.
At the same time, winter months often bring an increase in rodents such as rats and mice in certain areas. These animals can also find refuge inside vehicles, posing an additional risk not only to themselves but to the car itself.
Rodents are known to gnaw on cables and components of the electrical system, potentially causing short circuits and malfunctions. Repairs in such cases can be extensive and costly.
Adopting this simple pre-start habit is therefore a small but effective step that promotes animal welfare while helping drivers avoid unpleasant and expensive surprises.
Source: carandmotor.gr