Winter driving can be inconvenient, annoying, even infuriating. But you can offset those aggravations and minimize the special risks of winter driving.

Getting started

Here are some routine precautions to help you avoid starting problems:

Get an engine tune-up in the fall. Switch to winter-weight oil if you aren't already using all-season oil. Be sure all lights are in good working order. Have the brakes adjusted.

Battery and voltage regulator should be checked. Make sure battery connections are good.

If the battery terminal posts seem to be building up a layer of corrosion, clean them with a paste of baking soda and water. Let it foam, and then rinse with water. Apply a thin film of petroleum jelly to the terminal posts to prevent corrosion, and reconnect.

Be sure all fluids are at proper levels. Antifreeze should not only be strong enough to prevent freezing, but fresh enough to prevent rust.
Make sure wiper blades are cleaning properly. Consider changing to winter wiper blades, which are made for driving in snow. They are covered with a rubber boot to keep moisture away from working parts of the blade.

Don't idle a cold vehicle's engine for along time to warm it up - it could harm the engine. The right way to warm up a vehicle is to drive it.

Equipment and supplies

  Here's what you'll want to have on hand, especially in an emergency:

• Snow shovel.
• Scraper with a brush on one end.
• Tow chain or strap.
• Tire chains.
• Flashlight (with extra batteries).
• Abrasive material (cat litter, sand, salt, or traction mats).
• Jumper cables.
• Warning device (flares or reflective triangles).
• Brightly colored cloth to signal for help.
• Empty coffee or similar type can containing candles, matches (in a water tight containter) or a lighter, high-energy food (chocolate or dried fruit, for example).
• Sleeping bags or blankets, ski caps, and mittens.
• First-aid supplies.
• Compass.

Source:  The National Safety Council
Copyright © 1992, The National Safety Council