How to prepare for winter driving

AAA Washington offers the following advice for drivers dealing with winter weather:

Check for proper tire inflation and condition. Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to decrease and can be a safety hazard. Low tire pressure also contributes to poor fuel efficiency. Tires should have at least 3/16-inch of tread depth and be evenly worn.

Check engine oil levels and change oil every 3,000 miles or the interval recommended in your owner's manual. The most common problem AAA found when conducting vehicle inspections in October was low levels of engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid and power steering fluid.

Check for interior and exterior burned-out light bulbs, malfunctioning switches and misdirected headlight beams.

To protect heating and cooling systems, check the radiator and hoses for leaks, bulges and cracks. Add antifreeze mixture when low and replenish if the liquid is discolored. Flush the system at recommended intervals. Test heater and defroster.

Check braking resistance and brake fluid levels.

Replace windshield wiper blades every six months. Clean the windshield inside and out. Fill washer fluid reservoir.

Prepare a winter driving kit with tire chains, an abrasive material such as sand, a snow shovel, traction mats, a flashlight, an ice scraper, rags, booster cables, blankets, gloves, warm clothes, a first-aid kit, a cell phone and charger, batteries, food, water and warning devices.