Driving a car in winter is not so easy, and it is also not always safe. The snow and ice increase the risk, so it is important to follow certain safety norms during winters. This article lists some useful car winter safety tips drivers should follow to ensure that they are safe when on the road:

Make your car winter-ready
The first car winter safety tip is to prepare your car for the winter. This includes considering the following things:

• Ensure that you have sufficient fuel, engine oil, coolant, and brake oil, especially if you’re going on a long trip. Also, get the battery checked.
• Keep your fuel tank full or at least at 50% capacity to prevent condensation.
• If you’re getting your vehicle serviced, get it done just before winter so that the car is in excellent condition.
• Ensure that the tires have the right pressure and the tread is good.
• If weather conditions are extreme, consider getting winter tires.
• Ensure that the wipers and car heater are working properly.
• Check the exhaust pipe for clogging due to snow and dirt and ensure that it is cleaned.
• Keep warm blankets, an extra pair of warm clothing, a flashlight, a scraper to scrape off ice from the windshield, jumper cables in case the battery fails, and emergency medications and a first aid kit handy for emergencies.

Check the weather forecast
Before you leave the house, check the weather forecast, and ensure that you are prepared. Also, check whether there are any roadblocks due to snow on the route you’re going to take.

Practice safe driving
This is, without a doubt, the most important winter safety tip while driving a car. Driving safe is critical, as a small mistake can lead to serious consequences on snowy and wet roads. Consider the following safe driving tips:

• Don’t drive too fast as sudden braking can cause problems, and avoid sudden acceleration and braking.
• Keep your eye open and watch out for any oncoming vehicle, animal, or person. Sudden braking can make you lose control, so keep a watch and start braking slowly.
• Avoid distractions like using a mobile phone or listening to the radio.
• Avoid using the cruise control option and switch it off during the winter months.

General driving tips
While driving in wet weather, you should keep the following tips in mind:

• Don’t stop your vehicle. Once switched off, starting may be a problem if the battery is low on charge. Keep the engine running while you are driving in inclement weather.
• Be careful driving uphill, never stop, and maintain a steady pace.
• Ensure that the lights are on and you’re visible to other drivers.
• Use the emergency lights in case you are stuck. If the lights are not working, keep a red cloth to warn other vehicles.