When leaves begin to fall . . .

• Refill antifreeze
• Check your brakes
• Replace wiper blades
• Check your battery
• Refill washer fluid

Be Prepared!

• Before you leave, check the forecast and let someone know your route of travel
• Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent gas line freezing
• Tires: chains provide the most traction followed by studded tires (legal October 1st through May 1st) and regular snow tires
• Carry a winter survival kit which should include: blankets, flashlight and extra batteries, a brightly colored cloth, sand (or a bag of cat litter), shovel, candle and matches, non-perishable high calorie foods (nuts, raisins, and candy bars), newspapers (for insulation), a first aid kit and jumper cables.

If you should become stranded:

• Don’t leave your car - it’s the best protection you have!
• Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna.
• Roll down a window a small amount.
• Keep the exhaust pipe free of blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Leave the dome light on at night to aid search parties.
• Don’t panic - an idling car uses only one gallon of gas per hour.

Drive According to . . . Road Conditions

• Allow extra time to get where you’re going
• Clear all windows of ice and snow
• Remove snow from hood, roof and lights
• Slow steady starts prevent needless spinning of the wheels
• Pavement is twice as slippery at 32° as it is at 0°
• Beware of bridges, underpasses, overpasses, shaded areas and intersections where ice is slow to melt
• Slow down - it increases traction
• Avoid abrupt stops and starts – slow down gradually and keep wheels turning to avoid getting stuck
• Use low beam headlights to decrease glare from ice
• Wet pavement can cause hydroplaning at speeds as low as 35 mph - wheels may lose contact with the pavement causing a skid or spin

Drive Defensively!

• Wear your safety belt at all times
• Don’t tailgate -- always leave a safety cushion of at least two car lengths per 10 mph you’re traveling
• When braking on ice apply gentle but firm pressure without locking brakes
• Watch for pedestrians - poor visibility and slippery conditions provide hazardous walkways and crossings
• Anticipate others’ actions
• To regain control during a skid, release brakes and gently steer the car in the direction of skid

Please Remember . . .

• Adding weight to the back of your vehicle may alter its handling capabilities.
• Don’t decrease tire pressure to increase traction. The only thing this increases is wear on the tires!