Safety Tips For Winterizing Your Car (NAPSA)—Planning and being Leas prepared can help keep drivers safe during the unpredictable dri- ving conditions associated with cold weather. To keep drivers and their pas- sengers safe on the road, American Suzuki offers a list of recommendations for winterizing your car or truck. Four-wheel drive vehicles, such as Suzuki’s AWD Aerio SX and 4WD XL-7, are ideal as they are specifically designed to handle even the toughest of roads. Be aware. Before travelers begin their trip, they should check the weather and road conditions and be aware of current weather patterns and forecasts as well as road closures and detours. Clear visibility. All vehicles should be inspected before depar- ture to ensure headlights and tail- lights are clear of ice, snow and mud. Functioning windshield wipers and wiper blades are also a a 4 During colder weather, drivers should check to see headlights and taillights are clear of ice, snow and mud. Practice safety. Drivers and passengers must always wear their seat belts. Small children and infants should be correctly placed in properly secured car seats or booster seats. Slow down. Drivers need to remember to drive slower during critical. Battery power. Drivers need to test their batteries regularly to make sure they are charging prop- winter weather. Therefore, they connections. Kick the tires. Tire pressure and wear should be monitored, including the spare tire. Not only does it provide a safer ride but will also conservefuel. Check things out. Antifreeze, oil, brake, transmission, power supplies, a flashlight, blanket, bottled water, food and a cellular erly and have no corrosion at the steering and wiper fluid levels and condition need to be checked as well. Correct levels can be found in the owner’s manual from the car. Carry chains. Tire chains are required for some roads across the country. Drivers should carry a set with them and practice putting them on before thetrip. should leave early and allow plenty of time to get to their destination. Prepare for emergencies. An emergency kit containing first aid phoneis essential. Drivers should also carry emergency road care items such as jumper cables, flares, a spare tire and a sign to alert other drivers they are in need of assistance. With the increase in travel over the winter months, it is crucial that drivers carefully plan and prepare to ensure a safe arrival. Suzuki SUVs, including Grand Vitara, XL-7 and Vitara V6 models, offer a safe and comfortable ride for the journey. Please visit www.suzuki.com for more information.
