Before you start: Clear the snow and ice off your whole car, (not just the windows) so you have an unobstructed view of the road. Don't forget to clean the headlights. Carry a cellphone, shovel, sand or kitty litter, snacks and water in case you get stuck.
After a big snow, don't leave until the snow plows and sanding trucks have done their work. For a frozen door lock, heat the end of the key with a match. Turn your lights on when you leave.
* When renting a car during bad weather, ask for one with four-wheel drive. It won't solve all driving problems, but four-wheel drive can help you get through snow. Drive slowly.
* If you don't have much experience driving in winter conditions, practice your moves and check your car's response in a vacant parking lot before starting your trip. Warmer climes, such as in Atlanta, generally have a mix of snow and sleet.
On the road: Drive slowly and leave three times the amount of space you normally allow between your car and the one ahead. Don't use cruise control. To stop, brake gently. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
In a skid: If your rear wheels skid, stop accelerating and steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. Apply anti-lock brakes with steady pressure. If you have standard brakes, pump them gently.
What if you get stuck? It can happen in your yard, in front of a house, or anywhere you happen to slide off the road for even a few feet. When it does, don't spin your wheels.
* Turn the wheels from side to side to push away the snow. Use a light touch to ease your car out. If that doesn't work, use a shovel to clear the snow from the wheels and underside of the car and put sand under the wheels. Try gently rocking the vehicle back and forth.
* Don't gun the engine repeatedly, or you could ruin the transmission.
If none of this works, dial up a tow truck. Have a snack and a drink of water. Call your boss to say you'll be late, then just relax and wait for help.
