As winter draws near in Kansas it’s crucial for you as well as your family member’s safety that you are well prepared for winter time driving. A perfect place to start preparing for the winter driving season is to check your vehicle’s fluids and tires. Ensure that your tires are inflated properly as indicated by the manufacturer’s recommendations. Make sure that the tread is not too worn and the tires are capable of handling the slippery snow and icy weather in Kansas. Most brands of new tires on the market today work really well in a variety of conditions, although some people living in more rural areas may need to consider snow chains for additional traction.

In addition to checking your car’s fluids and tires also ensure that all the belts and hoses are in good shape and ready to take the cold of winter. Have your battery checked (most auto parts stores will check batteries for free) as the cold temperatures are brutal on car batteries. Carry out a general inspection on the wipers, exterior lights and most importantly always keep your vehicle full of gasoline. The best practice for this is to go ahead and fill your tank when it becomes half empty. Once your car is ready to take on the winter weather, you should now focus on the things that you cannot do without in an emergency while driving.

When heading out in winter weather your vehicle becomes your second home if you become stuck, stranded or involved in an accident. In an unfortunate event like this having an emergency/medical kit with you will certainly be helpful.

Your kit should include:

• Flares
• First-aid kit
• Blankets
• Sweatshirts
• Gloves
• Small shovel to clear snow
• Water and non-perishable snacks
• Flashlight and extra batteries

Winter driving safety tips will never be complete without advice on how to drive in winter conditions. Start by ensuring that the ice and snow is cleared off from the tires and windshield before you head out on the road. To keep the tires from spinning you should apply the gas gradually. Also, make sure you drive at a moderate speed which typically is much slower than the speed limit and keep at least two times the buffer you normally do in order to have plenty of room to apply the brakes.

Keep in mind that driving in winter conditions requires more time and distance when braking, accelerating, and turning and should be done as though you are driving on a glass surface. There is absolutely no room for any sudden braking, turning or stopping; everything has to be gradual and done with great patience. Following these tips will help you be prepared during the winter driving season ahead.