Are your vehicles prepared for the winter roads?

Reliable transportation is especially important in the winter. Driver and vehicle preparation needs to be taken seriously because maneuvering in the snow and ice requires special skills. To prevent a winter wonderland from becoming a winter nightmare, below are some helpful tips.

The good news is there are steps you can take to help prevent vehicle problems from occurring when the temperature drops:

• Take the vehicle to a mechanic to check out the battery, antifreeze level, thermostat, heater, brakes and defroster.
• Check to make sure the tires have adequate tread for better traction, and that they are equipped to handle extreme winter driving.
• Make sure the front and rear lights are operational, especially the car's flashing hazard lights.
• Top off the washer fluid reservoir. Make sure to only use washer fluid, as it doesn't freeze and will help break down the frozen layer on the windshield.
• Stock the vehicle with basic winter driving equipment, such as a scraper and brush, small shovel, jumper cables and a bag of sand or cat litter for tire traction.
• Fill the gasoline tank, even for a short distance, and stop to fill-up long before the tank begins to run low. Keeping the tank as full as possible will minimize condensation that can lead to freezing and provide the maximum advantage in case of trouble.
• Always store a first aid kit. This should include all the usual items plus winter extras like flashlights, a fresh supply of batteries, blankets, matches, extra clothing, bottled water and non-perishable snacks.