Winter driving is generally associated with traveling in a challenging situation which becomes prevalent due to snows and blizzards. Even good drivers with years of experience behind the wheel, can get stuck on the road during winter season. Normally people shun the idea of driving during snowy winter evenings to avoid all kinds of troubles, but should they need to drive out then there are few essential precautions they must exercise.

• Drive with utmost caution: This is the rule of the thumb since nothing expedites this precaution. Check all the possible routes to your destination. Settle for the safest one no matter how long it is; after all life is precious than time spent on the journey. Avoid dangerous shortcuts. Be steady but sure about your move.

• Always listen to the latest weather news: Latest information about the weather condition of your area gives you a glimpse of the scene outside, where your skills and guts will be put to test. Take the road which is not secluded as there are chances that you might get stuck in the snowy storm then it will be difficult for the rescue team to reach you in short time.

• Inform others about your journey: Make someone learn about the place you are visiting, the path you will take to that place and by what time you have left and the time by which you are expected to reach your destination. This helps in avoiding frantic search of the missing person in case of a crisis.

• Keep your car in good condition: Be sure to check the overall condition of the car before you set on to the trip. Fuel status, condition of the exhaust pipe, tires' pressure etc must be confirmed. Give special attention to the brakes and tire grip. If any part is out of sync then take the remedial measure. Carry safety equipments in case of emergency for example, shovel, rope, winter clothes, blankets, tent clothes, battery, fire equipment, medicine to combat frost, water, chocolate , sugar cubes, extra food, first aid kit, fully charged mobile set, and if possible a weapon to defend oneself etc. All these items can come in handy in case you get trapped in a snow covered area.

• Keep yourself protected from the cold: A. frost attack can discharge the body of all its energy and you might feel lethargic. If you feel cold enough to have an urge to drink alcohol; do not give in to temptation. Try drinking other non alcoholic beverage to keep warm. Alcohol induces sleep in a cold body can cause fatal accidents in case you engage in driving under the influence of alcohol.

In addition to the tips mentioned above, common sense is often the best defense against bad weather conditions. Drive at a slow speed as road tends to be slippery and can cause accidents. If you are traveling in the group then let people drive in turn. This reduces the exhaustion on a single individual. Take some rest after driving for a while. Last but not the least; avoid overstretching yourself and stay alert. The idea is to reach home safely.