Oh, Kansas! You really just don't know what the weather will bring on any given day.  A morning that starts out as spring like can end with a frigid snow storm.  Be reminded that cold winter weather heightens the risk for break downs and accidents while traveling.  While not all accidents are avoidable, many are.   We want to encourage all drivers to prepare your vehicle for impending weather conditions to keep you and your passengers safe this season! 

• Prepare Your Vehicle

• Take care of some winter maintenance items by checking your tire tread, light functionality, windshield wipers, battery, and coolant levels. Although it may seem like a burdensome expense at the time, a little bit of time and money spent now can save you more time and more money later! It may even save your life.
• Stock your vehicle! Some winter travel items may include an ice scraper, snow shovel, kitty litter, jumper cables, flashlight, flares, emergency blanket, phone charger, water, food, and necessary medicines.
• Never run low on fuel. Keep your tank as close to full as possible at all times.
• Plan your route and let someone know when and where you will be traveling.
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• Driving Safely in Winter Conditions

• Stay home whenever possible.
• Slow down. Roads are slick and hard to stop on.
• Remain at a safe stopping distance. Don't crowd the vehicles traveling in front of you.
• Remember car seat safety. Children in car seats should not be buckled in with their heavy winter apparel. 

• In an Emergency

• Get as far off of the roadway as possible.
• Call for assistance.
• Stay with your vehicle.
• Make your car visible to other travelers- cones behind the vehicle, flag the antenna, use flares, whatever makes you seen to others.
• Only run your vehicle long enough to stay warm. Make sure the exhaust pipe is not clogged with debris or packed with snow. 

More detailed safety tips for winter travel are provided by our friends at the US Department of Transportation by visiting: https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips