1. Maintain your car. Check battery, tire tread, windshield wipers, keep your windows clear, put no-freeze fluid in the washer reservoir, and check your anti-freeze.
2. Have on hand: flashlight, jumper cables, abrasive material (sand, kitty litter, even floor mats), shovel, snow brush and ice scraper, warning devices like flares, and blankets. For long trips add food, water, medication, cell phone and charger.
3. Stopped or stalled? Stay in your car, don't overexert, put bright markers on antenna or windows and shine dome light. If you run your car, clear the exhaust pipe and run it just enough to stay warm.
4. Plan your route. Allow plenty of time for your trip and check the weather and leave early if necessary. Be familiar with maps/directions and let others know your route and arrival time.
5. Practice cold weather driving.
- During the daylight, rehearse maneuvers slowly on ice or snow in an empty lot
- Steer into a skid
- Know what your brakes will do: stomp on antilock brakes, pump on non-antilock brakes
- Stopping distances are longer on ice and water-covered ice
- Don't idle for a long time with the windows up or in an enclosed space