Winter-like weather has arrived in the Pacific Northwest. The wet and cold weather is a good reminder to prepare your vehicle and have an emergency kit if you're planning to drive during snowy conditions.
Below are tips from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) on what to do before the storm hits to make sure your vehicle is ready and what you can keep close by to keep you safe during a storm.
Preparing for winter travel:
- Check your tires: Make sure your chains fit before you hit the road and check tire pressure during cold weather
- Do a maintenance check-up: Make sure your battery, belts, hoses, radiator, lights, brakes, heater/defroster, and wipers work properly
- Keep your tank full: Don't let your fuel tank fall below half a tank on winter trips
- Get traffic reports and emergency messages over the radio from 530 and 1610 AM
On top of making sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving conditions, it's also encouraged to have an emergency kit in your vehicle that can help if you find yourself stranded on the road for long periods of time or if your vehicle breaks down.
What to keep in your emergency kit:
- Flashlight/Batteries
- Cellphone charger
- Water/Snacks
- Boots/Gloves/Warm Clothes
- Blanket
- Music/Games
- First aid kit
What to keep in your vehicle:
- Tire chains (Make sure they fit first!)
- Jumper cables
- Ice scraper/Snow brush
- Road flares
It's always a good idea to check WSDOT's website for the latest driving conditions over the mountain passes.