1- Get winter tires: Winter tires are made from a specialized rubber compound that has better grip in cold weather, and an optimized tread width. This difference provides extra grip, preventing the car from slipping on snowy and icy roads.
2- Drive smoothly and slowly: Reduce your speed to correspond with conditions. When stopping, avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel and pump the brake gently. Avoid locking of brakes on glazed ice as it will cause a loss of steering and control.
3- Get an emergency car kit: It’s always smart to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Have winter safety and emergency equipment in your car. A basic car kit should contain the following:
- Ice scraper
- Water—plastic bottles that won’t break if the water freezes (replace them every six months)
- Blanket
- Winter hat and gloves
- Extra clothing and shoes or boots
- Bottled water
- First aid kit with seatbelt cutter
- Small shovel, scraper and snowbrush
- Fire extinguisher
- Candle in a deep can and matches
- Wind‑up flashlight
- Whistle—in case you need to attract attention
- Roadmaps
- Copy of your emergency plan
- Food that won’t spoil, such as energy bars
4- Keep a full gas tank: When driving in bad weather, think caution, plan ahead, and make sure you have enough fuel.
5- Keep your lights on: Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists, even during the daylight.
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