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Winter Driving

If you must drive in bad weather, plan ahead and make sure you have enough fuel.
See and be seen; clear all snow from the hood, roof, windows and lights. Clear all windows of fog. If visibility becomes poor, find a place to safely pull off the road as soon as possible.
Try to keep to main roads.
Wear warm clothes that do not restrict movement.
Drive with caution. Measure your speed to conditions.
Don't press on. If the going gets tough, turn back or seek refuge.
Avoid overtaking another vehicle if possible, when weather conditions and roads are bad.
Keep your radio tuned to a local station for weather advice.
Buckle up at all times. Properly secure small children in child restraints.
Don't drive after drinking alcohol and don't drive if you're feeling drowsy.
In bad weather, let someone know your route and intended arrival time, so you can be searched for if you don't turn up after a reasonable delay.
Avoid over-exertion and exposure. Shovelling and bitter cold can kill. Stay in your car. You won't get lost and you'll have shelter. Keep fresh air in your car. Open a window on the side sheltered from the wind. Run your motor sparingly. Beware of exhaust fumes and the possibility of carbon monoxide. Ensure the tailpipe is not blocked by snow. Use the candle for heat instead of the car's heater, if possible. Set out a warning light or flares. Put on the dome light. Overuse of headlights may run your battery down. Exercise your limbs, hands and feet vigorously. Keep moving and don't fall asleep. Keep watch for traffic or searchers. Wear a hat as you can lose up to 60% of your body heat through your head.
Keep control of your vehicle to avoid collisions. Winter collisions can occur when your vehicle skids. A skid occurs when you apply the brakes so hard that one or more wheels lock, or if you press hard on the accelerator and spin the drive wheels. Skids also occur when you are travelling too fast on a curve and encounter a slippery surface. Skids can best be avoided by anticipating lane changes, turns and curves; slowing down in advance; and by making smooth, precise movements of the steering wheel. Regardless of the type of skid you encounter, to regain control of your vehicle, DO NOT PANIC.
Keep a Winter Car Survival Kit in your vehicle at all times.