Winter driving can be hazardous and scary, especially if you live in northern regions that get a lot of snow and ice. Extra preparations make your winter trips safer and you will be better prepared in the event of an emergency along the way.

There are three “P’s” in winter driving: Prepare, Protect and Prevent. Prepare by maintaining your vehicle and having emergency supplies on hand. Protect yourself and your children by proper restraints. Prevent crashes by slowing down, keeping your eyes open and avoiding drugs, alcohol and fatigue. The Following are 3-P tips for safer winter driving:

1. PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP

Maintain your vehicle: Keep your vehicle in good repair and fueled up. Have it serviced by a qualified mechanic and be sure that the brakes, battery, exhaust and cooling systems, headlights, fluid, windshield wipers and washers are all in proper working order. Check the tire tread and pressure, keep your windows clear, put no-freeze fluid in the washer reservoir, and check your antifreeze. Throughout the winter, keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze.

Have in your vehicle: Flashlight, jumper cables, abrasive material (sand, kitty litter, even floor mats), shovel, snow brush and ice scraper, warning devices (like flares and a fluorescent flag) and blankets. For long trips, add food and water, medication and cell phone.

If your car has been outside during a snowfall: Brush all the snow off before setting out. Snow left on the front hood will blow into the front vent and cause defrosting problems, and can also melt and re-freeze on the windshield. Snow on the roof will cover the rear window and snow on the rear deck will blow onto tail lights. Pay particular attention to cleaning off headlights and tail lights so that other motorists can see you.

If you are stopped or stalled: Stay with your car, don't over exert, put bright markers on the antenna or windows and shine dome light. If you run your car, clear exhaust pipe and run it just enough to stay warm.

Plan your route: Keep close tabs on the weather. Avoid traveling, especially alone. Allow plenty of time (check the weather and leave early if necessary), be familiar with the maps/directions, and let others know your route and arrival time. Avoid driving during a winter storm or blizzard warning.

Practice cold weather driving:

• During daylight, rehearse maneuvers slowly on the ice or snow in an empty lot. Steer into a skid.
• Know what your brakes will do: stomp on antilock brakes, pump non-antilock brakes.
• Stopping distances are longer on water-covered ice and ice.
• Don't idle for a long time with the windows up or in an enclosed space.

2. PROTECT YOURSELF

• Buckle up and use child-safety seats properly.
• Never place a rear-facing infant seat in front of an air bag.
• Children 12 and under are much safer in the back seat.
• Sit back 10 inches from an air bag.

3. PREVENT CRASHES

Adjust your speed to the conditions and increase following distances. Remember that bridges and overpasses can be more slippery than other parts of the road. If you begin to skid, remain calm, ease your foot off the gas and turn the wheel in the direction you want the car to go. If you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS) apply a steady firm pressure to the brake pedal. Never pump ABS brakes.

• Drugs and alcohol never mix with driving.
• Slow down and increase distances between cars.
• Keep your eyes open for pedestrians walking in the road.
• Avoid fatigue by getting plenty of rest before the trip, stopping at least every three hours, and rotating drivers if possible.

Sources: “Tips for Safe Winter Driving,” National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, www.nhtsa.dot.gov. “Winter Weather Preparedness Tips,” Federal Emergency Management Administration, www.fema.gov. "Winter Driving and Survival Tips," Minnesota Safety Council, www.minnesotasafetycouncil.org