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(NAPSI)-Frigid cold, freezing rain, poor road conditions and reduced visibility from heavy or blowing snow can all make cold-weather driving extremely hazardous. Here are some tips to help you avoid unpleasant or dangerous situations:
• Keep your vehicle serviced regularly and the gas tank at least half full at all times.
• Make sure all other fluids are topped off, and check your windshield washer fluid frequently.
• Make sure your windshield wipers work well; they may help you avoid an accident.
• When driving through isolated areas, always let someone know where you are going, when you are leaving, and at what time you expect to arrive.
• Drive more conservatively on snowy, icy or water-covered roads. Increase the usual distance between you and the car ahead of you. Begin slowing down earlier than normal.
A number of winter deaths can be attributed to people being stranded and venturing too far from their vehicles. ACDelco urges stranded motorists to tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna and to stay with their vehicle. Emergency crews can find your car a lot easier than they can find you alone. You will more easily avoid frostbite and hypothermia by staying in the car and out of the elements. You should also try to avoid exposure to the cold and overexertion when attempting to push your vehicle or shovel heavy snowdrifts.
Having essential supplies can help provide some comfort and safety for you and your passengers should you become stranded. ACDelco recommends keeping a Winter Survival Kit in your vehicle at all times. It should include a charged cell phone, a flashlight, a shovel, a first-aid kit, maps, reflectors and flares. You should also have booster cables, a fire extinguisher and a tool kit with screwdrivers, pliers, hammer, utility knife, wrench, a ratchet or socket set, and rolls of electrical and duct tape.
ACDelco makes parts for Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, GM and practically every other vehicle on the road today. To find an ACDelco parts retailer or certified ACDelco Independent Service Center near you, log on to acdelco.com or call 1-800-A-C-Delco.
Keep supplies on hand for cold-weather driving.