1. Engine Oil
As temperatures dip below freezing, thinner oil is optimal. Outside temperatures influence the internal temperature of your car’s engine, so be sure to get the proper type of oil for colder weather conditions.

2. Coolant
Make sure the engine coolant has ethylene glycol in the mix to protect your engine. The water to coolant ratio is also important. Most vehicles require a 60 percent coolant to 40 percent water ratio.

3. Battery
Have your battery, cables, terminal and fluid inspected to avoid a dead battery. Turn the engine off and read the charge level on the hydrometer. A fully charged battery should read at least 12.6V.

4. Tires
Most tire manufacturers recommend changing all four tires before the winter months. If this seems expensive, you can opt for all-season tires, but you will not have the features of a seasonal tire.

5. Windshield
Look for a washer fluid that has an antifreeze solution to clear off the cold, heavy grime. Some of these fluids are harsh and can damage the paint, so be cautious.

Taking these simple tips into account can save your life.

1. You can prevent skids by driving slowly and carefully, especially on curves. Steer and brake with a light touch. When you need to stop or slow, do not brake hard or lock the wheels and risk a skid. Maintain mild pressure on the brake pedal.

2. If you do find yourself in a skid, remain calm, ease your foot off the gas, and carefully steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. For cars without anti-lock brakes, avoid using your brakes. This procedure, known as “steering into the skid,” will bring the back end of your car in line with the front. If your car has ABS, brake firmly as you steer into the skid.

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3. Avoid hydroplaning by keeping your tires inflated correctly. Maintain good tire tread. Don’t put off replacing worn tires. Slow down when roads are wet, and stay away from puddles. Try to drive in the tire tracks left by the cars in front of you.

4. If you find yourself hydroplaning, do not brake or turn suddenly. This could throw your car into a skid. Ease your foot off the gas until the car slows and you can feel the road again. If you need to brake, do it gently with light pumping actions. If your car has anti-lock brakes, then brake normally. The car’s computer will automatically pump the brakes much more effectively than a person can do.

5. A defensive driver adjusts his or her speed to the wet road conditions in time to avoid having to use any of these measures.

Reprinted with permission from the National Safety Council