(NAPSA)—While you may not be able to avoid getting caught on the road when the weather turns bad, female drivers can stay safe with a little preparation. “Whether traveling on the highwayor a rural side road,all drivers need to take certain precautions,” advises Michelle Stoutermire, manager of diversity for OnStar. “Many womenfind that a system such as OnStar provides peace of mind because advisors are available to respond 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week.” Wendy Kocin of Havertown, Penn., was one of those caught outside last winter when the weather turned bad. She and her family found themselves snowbound—and stranded—on a deserted road in the middle of the Allegheny National Forest. Fortunately, Kocin’s vehicle was equipped with OnStar. When she pushed the blue OnStar button she was automatically connected to an OnStar advisor whoalerted state police to her plight and her location. To help prepare for the hazards associated with winter driving, OnStaroffers the followingtips: Make sure your vehicle is winter weather-worthy. Check your battery, antifreeze, wipers and wiper fluid. Consider snow tires and keep yourgastankfull. Outfit your trunk with the following necessities: Windshield ice scraper, small broom for sweeping snow off your windshield, blankets, flares or red or orange cloth strips for signaling, snow shovel (foldable if possible) and small bag of sand (to help create traction under wheels). Keep snacks and plenty of water in your car, along with maps or a road atlas, flashlight Invest in an in-vehicle safety and security system designed to keep drivers and their families safe and on the road. and extra batteries and first aid kit. Always keep a change of clothes and appropriate footwear and outerwear in the trunk, along with jumpercables. Listen to the weather broadcasts and heed possible hazardous condition warnings. Be prepared to change plans if weather makes travel hazardous. And be sure to let others know your route and arrival time. Invest in an in-vehicle safety and security system. There are several service packages designed to keep drivers and their families safe and on the road this winter and all year round. For example, OnStar’s Safe & Sound service provides peace of mind that comes from their core services, such as automatic notification of air bag deployment, emergency services notification for dispatch, GM Goodwrench remote vehicle diagnostics, stolen vehicle location and many other safety and security services. The packageis available for $16.95 a month. For more information about safe and secure car travel, visit www.onstar.com.
