You are likely to find ice and snow on the roads in many parts of the country. There are some basic rules to remember to stay safe in the car in difficult driving conditions:

• Start early and take your time.
• Accelerate slowly, especially on hills
• Drive slowly to avoid having to stop while going up a hill, as it will be hard to start again.
• Don’t make any sudden turns or stops.
• Be sure that the mirrors and windows are always free of snow and ice.
• If you skid, try to steer in the direction the car is sliding to regain control.
• The changes in temperature sometimes cause potholes in the streets. If you don’t see the pothole in time to steer around it, apply the brakes before hitting the pothole and release them just before you reach the pothole. If you keep the brake on as you hit the pothole, it will do more damage to the tire.
• Try to keep your gas tank at least half full.
• If your wheels spin on ice, switch to low gear, even on automatics.
• Leave extra space between you and the car in front of you.
• Remember that bridges and exit ramps are icier than roads.
• Ask what kind of brakes your car has and how to use them in case of a skid.

Photo: Doug Waldron