Many people get stuck and sometimes hurt in the fall and winter because they have failed to plan for the seasonal changes that occur. Here are most, if not all, of the items to check in and on your car before the weather turns from balmy to frosty.

1.  Windshield washer fluids need to be rated for below freezing temperatures. This is easy to spot on the bottles. Generally the pink ones are for summer driving and the blue ones are for the winter. They also usually have a rated temperature; the blue ones listed down to well below freezing (usually -40 Celsius or Fahrenheit).  Check the predicted lowest temperature you are likely to encounter and purchase accordingly.

2.  Wiper blades should be replaced regularly. Six to twelve months is usual. You may wish to buy “snowblades” which have rubber boots around the blade holders. These do not load up with ice as readily and therefore provide better visibility.

3.  Oil changes should be considered, especially if your car is older and uses a higher viscosity oil in the summer. These summer oils do not flow well in cold temperatures and will make starting your car harder. Winter oils are lower viscosity-typically zero to 30 weight. Summer oils are 30 to 50 weight range.

4.  Tires should also match the conditions you will be driving through. If you expect some light snowy conditions for part of your winter, all season tires are a good choice. They are not as noisy on the road as full snow tires and can be left on the car all year round. If, however, you expect months of heavier snowfall then full mud and snow (M&S) rated tires are really what you need. These tires wear out more quickly on dry or wet roads but provide superior traction and stopping power on snow and ice. Be aware that chains are required for winter travel in some locations so plan and purchase accordingly.

5.  Exterior lights need to be checked. Ensure they all work including high beams and four way flashers.

6.  Protect the outside of your car with a good coat of wax. This saves the paint and makes it easier to remove road grime and salt.  Regular washing helps slow corrosion. Do not forget to rinse under the vehicle to remove the sand and salt used on winter roads.

7.  Before you travel during the winter, have the battery and charging system checked. Many parts stores will provide this service for free.

8.  Protect yourself by having the following with you when traveling in harsh winter conditions:

• Lock de-icer
• Jumper cables
• Emergency blanket
• Flashlight and/or lightsticks
• Cell phone – keep a charged old one in the glove box -911 still works in many locations without a plan
• Bottled water
• First aid kit
• Shovel/kitty litter/traction mat
• Full fuel – keep the tank as full as possible

Keeping these ideas in mind will help make winter driving safer and, if you get stranded, may even save your life.