Tips for Driving in Midwest Winters

After driving here in Northern Indiana for many years, I am quite accustomed to driving in cold weather with snow, ice and blustery winds. One of the first things I think of is to drive slower than you would on dry roads without snow or ice. Also, as you pull up to a stop sign of any kind, brake gradually or slowly and do not slam on the brakes. If you are driving your vehicle in winter weather - snow, ice, wet and cold - your vehicle should be prepared for such conditions. You should look for the following:

Battery - should be recharged or replaced is the battery is weak.
Ignition - check for damaged ignition wires and/or cracks in distributor cap.
Lights - Have all lights checked for proper working. Includes headlights, side lights, emergency flashers, Directional lights, taillights, brake lights and parking lights
Tires should be in good condition with proper traction for ice and snow.
Exhaust system: Check exhaust system for leaks. A tightly sealed exhaust system reduces risk for carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you are stuck in snow, keep a window in your vehicle open, and keep the vehicle engine and heater running to keep warm.
Check the radiator and hoses for leaks.
Make sure your vehicle has enough antifreeze for the coldest weather check
Check defrosters to be sure they are working well.
Replace windshield wipers that are not operating efficiently.
Fill washer container with antifreeze fluid - refill it frequently.

What to Include in a Winter Driving Kit:

Properly fitted tire chains if needed
Bag of sand, salt or kitty litter
Traction mats
Snow shovel
Snow brush
Ice scraper
Booster cables
Warning devices - flares or emergency lights
Extra windshield wiper fluid for sub-freezing temperatures
Roll of paper towels
Flashlight and a portable flashing light - extra batteries
Blankets (at least two)
Extra clothing - hat, wind-proof pants, warm footwear
First aid kit
Snacks - food & water
Road maps
A cell phone if you have one

In the event you become stuck in the snow and cannot shovel yourself out, put a flare or some sort of light outside the vehicle. If you do not have a light, blink your headlights on and off several times when you see an approaching vehicle. Run your engine about ten minutes each hour to keep the vehicle a little warm. Wrap up in a blanket, and if there are more than one person in the vehicle, wrap up together, which will create more warmth. One caution: DO NOT FALL ASLEEP! Take turns sleeping for an hour or less.

Sources:

http://www.dot.state.tx.us/safety/tips/winter_driving.htm
http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/icesnow,.html
Personal Experience