Here in beautiful North Idaho we are lucky to have 4 very distinct seasons. Everybody loves the warmth of Summer, the freshness of Spring, the colors of Fall, and the coziness of Winter.
With winter comes SNOW and that can mean snow storms! Driving in the snow and knowing how to be prepared for winter driving can be a bit stressful.
Knowing what to do or even where to start preparation can be one of the biggest hurdles. There are simple preparations that can be done to your vehicle and with your family to get through the longest and coldest season. Check out the below tips to help avoid winter from sneaking up on you and those you love.
Preparation Tips for Successfully Surviving the Winter:
Get a Vehicle Winter Maintenance Check-up Before Winter Hits:
~ Don’t wait to check your battery, belts, hoses, radiator, lights, brakes, heater/defroster and wipers ~
~ Tire shops and mechanics are busiest just before and during winter storms, so get your check-up scheduled NOW ~
Keep a Basic Winter Survival Kit in Your Vehicle: ~ Flashlight ~ Batteries ~ Blanket ~ Snacks ~ Water ~ Gloves ~ Boots ~ First-aid kit ~ |
Load Your Car with Basic Travel Gear: ~ Tire chains ~ Ice scraper/snowbrush ~ Jumper cables ~ Road flares ~ |
Keep Your Fuel Tank Full: ~ Don’t let it fall below half a tank ~ |
Plan With Your Family ~ Create a plan that works well with your family ~ ~ Practice it each year before the snow falls ~ |
Stay Informed: ~ Be sure to find your local station for traffic reports and emergency messages ~ ~ Know the weather approaching so you are prepared for its arrival ~ |
Check Your Tires: ~ Make sure your chains fit before the first winter storm ~ ~ Check tire pressure during cold weather ~ |
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Click on the Checklists Below for More Information:
Get Ready for Freezing Temperatures & Snowfall
Get Ready for Winter Weather Driving
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AND REMEMBER TO ALWAYS BE SAFE OUT THERE!!
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Sources:
Washington State Dept of Transportation https://www.wsdot.com/winter/emergencykit.htm
Take the Winter by Storm https://takewinterbystorm.org/