How can you ensure the safety of wipers before driving?

To ensure the safety of wipers before driving, it's essential to check for any damage and confirm they are functioning properly. Wipers play a critical role in maintaining visibility during inclement weather conditions, such as rain or snow. If the wipers are damaged—like having torn blades or being worn out—they won't clear the windshield effectively, potentially compromising the driver's ability to see clearly and increasing the risk of an accident.

Additionally, ensuring they operate correctly—by checking that they move freely and make proper contact with the windshield—is crucial. This prevents streaks or missed spots that can obscure vision while driving. Regular maintenance can greatly enhance the reliability of the wipers, contributing to overall vehicle safety.

The other options, while related to vehicle maintenance, do not address the most critical factors for wiper safety. Testing length might not actually indicate whether the wipers work effectively, cleaning them with soap does not check their integrity or function, and inspecting the windshield for scratches deals with visibility issues but does not directly assess the wipers' condition.