It’s snowtime!

If you’re headed up to the mountains to enjoy the season’s snow, your vehicle is key to a safe and fun trip.

Prep your rig Having your vehicle in tip-top shape matters greatly, as the last thing you want is to be stranded with kids in freezing cold weather. A short list of items to check:

• Make sure your oil change and other basic maintenance is up-to-date.

• Check your tire tread and carry chains — and know how to use them.

• Check the battery and windshield wipers for good working order.

• Check all lights, as well as heating and cooling. Oregonians know that A/C is the key to defogging winter windows.

• Have no-freeze fluid in the washer reservoir and check your antifreeze.

• Pack a flashlight, jumper cables, abrasive material (sand, kitty litter), shovel, snow brush, ice scraper, warning devices (like flares) and blankets.

  
  

Before you go

Have a full tank of gas or full charge before leaving. Check the weather forecast and TripCheck.com, which offers a wealth of information to Oregon drivers, including live camera feeds.

Leave early and give yourself plenty of travel time. Pack basics like water, snacks, phone chargers, warm clothes and appropriate footwear. Don’t forget the sleds!

Make sure you have a Sno-Park permit to avoid fines. You can buy them online and

at local retailers.

On the drive

In snow, you need to take it slow: go easy on accelerating and braking. Don’t use cruise control. Use your low beams, even in daylight.

If you drive a large heavy vehicle, it does not mean you are invincible. Increase your stopping distances. In general, keep several car lengths away from other vehicles.

When you get home

A car wash is likely in order, after a mountain drive. Be sure to schedule any maintenance needed for your vehicle, so you can have peace of mind during all of your family’s future adventures.

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Brought to you by:

Kristina Jara

Kristina has been with Capitol Auto Group for over two years as a Service Business Development Specialist. Kristina and her husband Austin have two amazing children, Thomas who is 5, and Kiylee who is 4. “There are so many things I love about working for Capitol, including how it’s become another family to me,” Kristina says. In her spare time she enjoys doing puzzles with her family and reading books with her children.