12/01/2022
Prepare your vehicle for winter driving
Before driving during harsh weather you should check your vehicle to make sure you're prepared to drive in the winter.
Reliable transportation is especially important in the winter. As a car owner you want to make sure your vehicle is working properly before heading out in the snow. Make sure to check the following before you drive during the winter:
Ignition system
Fuel system
Belts
Fluid levels
Brakes
Exhaust system
Wiper blades and windshield washer fluid
Snow tires
Tire tread and pressure
Defroster
Proper grade oil
Cooling system
Battery
Lights
Antifreeze
Before driving during harsh weather
Before driving during harsh weather, make sure you do the following:
Charge your cell phone and keep a car charger for emergencies.
Always fill the gas tank before a long trip or even for a short distance. Keeping your tank full may prevent condensation.
Clear all windows and lights of frost and snow.
Ensure that your headlights are on.
Stock your car with basic winter driving equipment.
Warm your car battery ahead of time if possible, as the battery can provide a lot more power when warm. You can warm the battery by using a battery wrap or blanket when the battery is removed from the car.
Winter car supplies
It's never bad to be prepared for anything that may happen, especially on the road during winter. Here are supplies that will help your car moving:
Jumper cables
Snow shovel and scraper
Windshield scraper and brush
Extra windshield washer fluid and antifreeze
Flashlights and extra batteries
Flares or reflectors
Brightly colored cloth to use as a flag
Sand, road salt, strips of carpet, or kitty litter for traction
Tire chains or traction mats
Tow rope
Cloth or paper towels
Fire extinguisher
Basic tool kit (pliers, wrench, screwdriver)
Road maps
Emergency supplies
To keep yourself and other passengers safe while out in snow or ice, you'll want to have a few items in case of an emergency:
Blankets or sleeping bags
Extra clothing: cap, mittens, parka, and overshoes or boots
High calorie, non-perishable foods (such as candy, dried fruits or canned nuts)
Basic first aid kit
Necessary medications
Pocket knife
Manual can opener
Container of water
Before driving during harsh weather you should check your vehicle to make sure you're prepared to drive in the winter.
