Driving tips to handle worst winter conditions

In terms of holiday travel, the white Christmas dreams have turned into nightmares.

If you're preparing to travel, it's best to brace for the worst.

Josh Goodin, a tow truck operator for Carnell's Garage, said his operation had 40 to 50 calls by early afternoon Wednesday. Mostly, he helped pull people stuck in parking lots, but he also helped pull vehicles up exit and entrance ramps and pull out snow plows and road graders.

"Probably 65 percent of the people we pulled out didn't need to get out," he said.

If people have to travel, Goodin recommends carrying a shovel in the vehicle.

The Missouri Department of Transportation recommends carrying a small bag of sand on a trip. Motorists can pour sand around tires to gain traction.

If none of that works and a motorist is forced to call for a tow, the best thing to do, Goodin said, is stay in the car to avoid exposure to the elements and other vehicles. And then, be prepared to wait as long as two hours as every wrecker service is busy during winter storms.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol Web site, all available troopers will be working over the Christmas holiday.

BEFORE THE TRIP

* Winterize your car with fresh antifreeze, a good battery, a properly operating exhuast system and oil that will withstand the rigors of cold weather.

* If possible, avoid driving until the roads are cleared and treated.

* Inspect your vehicle. Pay special attention to your tires, brakes, windshield wipers and wiper fluid.

EQUIP YOUR VEHICLE WITH

* A flashlight with extra batteries

* A first-aid kit with a pocket knife

* Necessary medications

* Blankets and/or sleeping bags

* Extra mittens, gloves, socks, a warm cap and rain gear

* A small sack of sand for traction

* A small shovel

* Booster cables

* Pliers, a wrench and screwdriver

* A bright cloth to use as a flag

* Nonperishable foods

* Bottled water

* Matches and candles

* Phone book in case you need to call a wrecker

DURING THE TRIP

* When starting on snow or ice, start slowly and smoothly. If your tires start to spin, try clearing a path by driving backward and forward a few times. If that does not help, spread some abrasive material like salt, sand or cat box litter around your wheels.

* Never let anyone stand in line with spinning wheels. The wheels may throw up gravel or ice and cause an injury.

* When you want to slow down or stop, apply the brakes gently and smoothly. Never slam on your brakes -- this may cause you to skid. On very slippery surfaces, pump the brakes by gently pushing down and letting up on them several times. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock brake system, refer to your owner's manual for proper braking techniques in special situations.

* If you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, do not use the four-wheel drive on ice. Four-wheel drive vehicles can easily overturn on ice. If you hit an icy patch in four-wheel drive, take your foot off the accelerator.

* Obey speed limits.

* Adjust speed to suit the driving conditions.

* Give snow plows plenty of room and don't pass them.

* Wear your seatbelt.

* Remember that driving is most dangerous when temperatures are near 32 degrees.

* Keep lights on.

* Don't pass other vehicles on or near bridges.

* Keep fuel tank at least half full.

* If you don't feel comfortable driving, park at the first safe place.

TRAPPED IN YOUR CAR?

* Stay in the vehicle. Don't leave to search for help. It's easy to become disoriented and lost in blowing and drifting snow.

* Hang a bright cloth on the antenna.

* Run the engine for about 10 minutes each hour. Run the heater and turn on the dome light only when the vehicle is running.

* Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow and open a window slightly for ventilation

* Clap hands and move arms and legs occasionally. Don't stay in one position for too long.

* If more than one person is in the car, take turns sleeping.

* Huddle together for warmth.

* Use newspapers, maps and car mats for added insulation.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

* For road conditions, (800) 222-6400

* For emergency service from the highway patrol, (800) 525-5555 or *55 from your cell phone.

-- Missouri Department of Transportation; Missouri Driver Guide