Winter driving … GET prepared

    With chilly mornings adding a sprinkle of frost to car windows and blanketing green lawns with a white shroud, impending snow is just around the corner. So, banking houses in plastic wraps and concentrating on ways to save energy, along with conserving gas and fuel, replaces the attention given to getting vehicles weather-ready.
At right, there are several items pictured in the trunk of a car that will help if stranded. But, how many of us really have our vehicles ready and prepared for an emergency?
    But, what happens on a frigid morning when the car won’t start? Frustration and sudden stress that may have been prevented, if the vehicle received the attention it needed, too.
    Start by checking under the hood — if you can’t do it yourself, make an appointment with your mechanic — the battery, antifreeze levels and fuel line, changing and adjusting spark plugs, checking air, fuel and emission filters and the PVC valve, inspect the distributor, the ignition, brakes, tires for air, sidewall wear and tread depth, as well as the wiring, hoses and fan belt.
    Before the snow starts flying, schedule a tune-up for better gas mileage, quicker starts and faster response on pick-up and power, according to the National Safety Council.
    The next thing to consider, since probably half of Americans never do, is the emergency situation on the roadway. Most of us hop in the car, expect it to turn over, rev the engine a few times to warm it up, switch the heater to defrost and then start on our way. Never giving thought to what we have stored in our cars, since well, it’s just a short jaunt to town. However, what if we slide off the road? We ought to make sure we have a few essential items to help get us back on track.
    Consider a shovel or tow/tire chains. What can help get traction is a bag of kitty litter or salt. If the car won’t start, hope you have jumper cables. Make sure the spare is inflated and carry a tool kit, you never know when you may need it.
    In an “essential survivor kit” recommended by the National Safety Council, put some of the following items in the car and replenish them after use. A working flashlight and extra batteries; some bright colored clothing or reflective triangles; a compass; first aid kit; windshield cleaner; wooden stick matches in a waterproof container; scissors and string/cord; non-perishable, high energy foods such as nuts, dried fruit or candy and always have on hand an ice scraper and snow brush.
    Then in case you are traveling and get stranded, a few things that you can do until rescue are: don’t leave the car unless you know exactly where you are going, how far away help is and if it will improve your situation; to attract attention light flares or hang brightly colored cloth from the antenna; make sure the car’s exhaust is not blocked, run the engine and heater only about 10 minutes every hour or so depending on the gas situation; use wool items or blankets to prevent frostbite; open the window slightly, as heavy snow and ice can seal a car shut and eat a piece of hard candy to keep your mouth moist.
    However, to avoid running off the road, slow down and leave plenty of stopping room between yourself and the next vehicle; brake gently; turn your lights on for better visibility to others; keep lights and windshields clear; don’t use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads; be careful on bridges, overpasses and roads not frequently traveled because they will freeze first; don’t pass snow or sand trucks because visibility is poor and the road may not be better ahead of them; don’t think just because you drive a four-wheel or front-wheel drive vehicle you are immune to driving situations.
    Above all, caution and preparation are the keys for winter driving.