As the winter season approaches and snow is in the forecast for many areas, it's important to know what precautions to take to make sure your vehicle starts reliably and you stay safe on the road. Roy White, owner of Roy's Tire & Auto in Jackson, advises motorists to elevate their windshield wipers when expecting snow. This prevents them from freezing to the glass and simplifying the process of getting out of the driveway when the storm hits. In addition, White suggests keeping the vehicle's gas tank topped off. This helps if you have to be stranded on the road due to a storm and provides heat if you need to wait for help.

Another tip from White is to keep a few blankets in the vehicle. This provides warmth in a longer waiting period if you are stuck. The website, Air Intake Systems, recommends leaving the wipers in their normal position and avoiding putting them in the snow mode which only helps a vehicle get going from a total stop, but does not assist with increasing traction on slippery roads.

If the conditions look bad, White suggests people just stay home. Make sure your vehicle is prepared for a winter storm by stocking it with necessary items and adjusting the windshield wipers. And of course, if possible, use caution when driving in the winter conditions.