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Getting Ready for Winter Ensure the vehicle is winterized by late fall. This includes having the proper mix of anti-freeze and water in the cooling system, topping off the windshield washing solution, and checking the tire treads. Have a mechanic check the belts, hoses, tires, battery and coolant.
Keep the fuel tank near full, as low fuel levels can cause condensation to form, degrading fuel quality and possibly causing fuel line freeze-up. Additionally, gas stations may be closed during a severe winter storm, so it is wise to fill up if warnings of an impending storm are being broadcast.
Your car should always be equipped with emergency supplies.
Keep the following items stored in a portable container:
- A small battery powered radio (AM is sufficient) and extra batteries
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Cellular phone
- Windshield scraper
- Jumper Cables
- Fire extinguisher
- Maps
- Shovel
- Blanket
- Flares
- Bottled water
- First aid kit
- Tire repair kit and pump
- Tow chain or rope
- Nonperishable, high energy foods (granola bars, canned nuts, raisins, hard candy, trail mix, peanut butter and crackers)
If travel is necessary:
Inform someone of your destination and travel time. Take along a cell phone in case you must call for help. If the power goes out: - .Use extreme caution when driving. If traffic signals are out, treat each signal as a stop sign – come to a complete stop at every intersection and look before you proceed
- Do not call 9-1-1 to ask about the power outage. Listen to news radio stations for updates
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