The Kitchen Table

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By: Sheri Wilford

 

Winter in the Midwest can be brutal! Having your vehicle winter-ready is crucial—it may even save your life. Approximately 1,300 people die each year in vehicles due to snowy, icy winter weather. So, how can you reduce your risks?

1. Check your tires. If you have all-season tires, they’re designed to work in various climates. However, always ensure your tires have good tread. If your budget allows, consider switching to winter tires. These are specifically designed for snow and cold, with deeper treads and softer rubber that stays flexible in low temperatures.
2. Check your fluids. Make sure you have the correct mixture of antifreeze and water to prevent engine freezing. Choose a winter-grade oil based on your manufacturer’s recommendations, and be sure to use winter-specific windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze.
3. Check your battery, heating, defrosting systems, and inspect your brakes. Cold weather is tough on batteries, so have yours tested and clean the terminals to ensure they’re free of corrosion. Verify that your heater and defroster are working properly before the cold weather hits. Also, inspect your brakes—it takes much longer to stop a car on icy roads than on dry pavement.
4. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. Pack an emergency kit for winter just in case you get stuck and need some survival tools to get through a storm. Consider including blankets, a flashlight, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a snow shovel, a bag of sand, an ice scraper, and non-perishable food and water.

The best way to stay safe in the winter is to be prepared! Start thinking about these things now before the winter months arrive—they can sneak up on you!

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