Ask the Experts Blog

Driving in winter weather can be stressful and dangerous. By taking a few necessary precautions, you can make navigating through winter weather much easier and safer for you and your family.

To ensure your car is in top shape, follow this winter-weather checklist.

Take Your Car to a Mechanic for Service

At the start of winter, your car should receive yearly maintenance. At this time, antifreeze levels should be evaluated and adjusted if necessary. It is also important to have your brakes, battery and ignition system, heat and defroster, oil levels, and lights checked. In addition, make certain the tires on your car are appropriate for driving in winter conditions and keep at least a half tank of gas in your car at all times to reduce condensation buildup.

 Prepare an Emergency Kit for Your Car

While no one wants an accident to occur, it’s better to be safe just in case. As a result, an emergency kit should be kept in your car at all times and include:

• Booster cables
• Emergency flares
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered radio
• Extra batteries for radio and flashlight
• First aid kit
• Necessary medications
• Road salt and/or sand to improve traction if stuck
• Snack foods that will not freeze
• Small collapsible snow shovel
• Warm clothing such as gloves, boots, a knit cap, and a winter jacket
• Water (in a container with air space; to prevent freezing and bursting)
• Windshield scraper

Know Your Limits

“Traveling too fast for conditions is the most dangerous mistake drivers make,” said Rich Matthews, Director of Safety, Security and Emergency Preparedness at Lakeland Health. “During winter, the presence of snow and ice exacerbates this, and, inevitably, you see people spin out because they are exceeding safe driving speeds. No matter what type of car you are driving, it is vital you adjust your speed accordingly during winter weather.”

For more information about preparing your car for winter, visit www.ready.gov