Top Ten Tips for Driving Safely in Winter Weather

1. Prepare Your     Vehicle

Check tires, consider winter tires, ensure brakes, lights, and wipers work, keep fuel half full, and carry an emergency kit.

2. Clear Snow     and Ice

Clean windows, mirrors, lights; use ice scraper; remove snow from roof; defrost locks; ensure visibility.

3. Slow Down    and Increase    the following    distance.

Reduce speed for winter, maintain a safe distance for reaction time, better control and prevention.

4. Brake and    Accelerate    Gently

Moderate pressure on brakes/throttle, prevent skidding, maintain traction, minimize wheel spin.

5. Use Proper    Lights

Keep headlights on during day, use low-beam in fog or mist, use mist, clean or functional lights, and improve visibility

6. Avoid Cruise    Control

Maintain manual control on slippery roads, prevent loss of traction, and adjust in real time.

7. Know How    to Handle    Skids

Stay calm during skid, turn where you want to go, avoid sudden brakes, use ABS if available.

8. Stay     Informed

Check local weather/road updates, be aware of hazards, and consider postponing travel if necessary

9. Plan Ahead

Check brakes/tires/wipers, pack emergency supplies/first aid, plan routes and alternatives, inform someone of plans.

10. Stay Alert

Stay focused, avoid distractions, scan for hazards, maintain a safe distance, and be well-rested.