Prepare for winter travel emergencies

Winter driving can be hazardous and scary. It is important to take steps to make automobile travel safer for you and your family. The following tips will help keep you prepared for unexpected winter storms:

• Maintain your car. Check your battery and tire tread. Keep your windows clear. Put low temperature windshield wiper fluid in the washer reservoir. Check your antifreeze.
• Pack emergency supplies in your vehicle. Include flashlights, jumper cables, abrasive materials (such as sand, kitty litter or floor mats), a shovel, a snowbrush and ice scraper, warning devices (such as flares) and blankets. For long trips, add food, water, medicine and cell phone.
• Know what to do when stopped or stalled. Stay with your car. Do not overexert yourself. Put bright markers on your antenna or windows and shine your dome light. If you run your car's engine, clear the exhaust pipe from nearby snow and run it just enough to stay warm. Leave a window open slightly as exhaust fumes can cause asphyxiation.
• Plan your route. Allow plenty of time. Check the weather and leave early if necessary. Be familiar with the maps or directions. Let others know your route and estimated arrival time.
• Practice cold weather driving. During daylight, rehearse maneuvers slowly on the ice or snow in an empty lot. Always steer into a skid. Know what your breaks will do – stomp on antilock breaks, pump non-antilock brakes.