As we continue through the winter season, it is a good time to remember some things to do to be prepared for hazardous driving conditions.  The National Safety Council offers several tips to consider to make sure you arrive safely at your destination.

First, know the weather. Most local TV stations now have a weather app, or you can find information online if you are travelling out of town. Be aware of conditions that might change through the course of the day. If you can, change your travel plans to avoid potential storms. But if you must travel, leave early, slow down, and make sure you share your route and plans with someone.

If you happen to get stranded, don’t leave your vehicle. Light flares, call for help, and make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow, ice or mud. Run your vehicle for 10 minute intervals to keep warm until help arrives.

Also, be sure your vehicle is winterized. Your mechanic can do a thorough check of the following systems to ensure they are working properly:

• Ignition
• Brakes
• Wiring
• Hoses and fan belts
• Spark plugs
• Air, fuel and emissions filters, and PCV valve
• Distributor
• Battery
• Tire wear and air pressure
• Antifreeze level and freeze line

If you are driving in hazardous conditions, slow down. Pull off the road until conditions improve. If you do continue, give yourself more space between you and other vehicles, accelerate and decelerate slowly, and don’t use the cruise control.

Also, as part of the preparation, be sure to have a full tank of gas and fresh antifreeze, along with these winter driving items:

• Properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod jack
• Shovel
• Jumper cables
• Tow and tire chains
• Bag of salt or cat litter for better tire traction or to melt snow
• Tool kit
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Reflective triangles or flares
• Compass
• First aid kit
• Windshield cleaner
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Scissors and string or cord
• Nonperishable, high-energy foods like unsalted, canned nuts, dried fruits and hard candy
• Blankets, mittens, socks and hats

Be sure to check with your insurance agent, as many companies offer some sort of roadside assistance. Confirm with your agent if you have that coverage, and be sure to have the contact information of a towing service handy if you are stranded.