Winter Driving Tips Published Nov. 21, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Kathryn Stilwell 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- It happens to almost everyone at one point, it is early in the morning, you are in a hurry to get to work or school, and something goes horribly wrong with the car following a mad sprint out the door. It is frustrating to a car owner, but there are several preventative measures that can be taken when it comes to automobile maintenance and overall safety, especially during the cold-weather season. Tim Tyree, an automobile mechanic at the auto hobby shop on base, suggests winterizing the vehicle beforehand. This includes checking the antifreeze and cooling system, changing the wiper blades, and having the brakes checked. It is also recommended to have all of the fluids checked, including the oil, brake, power-steering, and windshield-washer fluid. Tyree recommends washer fluid with de-icer. "A lot of people don't realize that if they're low on antifreeze or coolant, the heater in their car won't work correctly," said Tyree. The auto hobby shop provides all of these services. They also check tire pressure free of charge. In preparation for the upcoming winter weather, they have wash bays available to rinse off the salt from the roadways. These can be rented for $4 an hour. Maj. Mark Muchenberger, the flight safety officer with 436th Airlift Wing Safety Office, advises drivers to maintain a fine-tuned vehicle is to check the tire pressure and proper tread depth, as they can lose air pressure as the outside temperature drops. It is also recommended to keep the gas tank at least half full and have it serviced at the prescribed interval by a certified mechanic. During cold weather, it is important to remember to use care while operating a motor vehicle on the roads. There will be increased periods of reduced visibility due to fog, rain and snow. Have the headlights on while driving during periods of reduced visibility. Obey speed limits and reduce speed during precipitation. Bridges ice before roadways do. Tyree offers a few final suggestions. · Warm-up the vehicle beforehand so the engine has a chance to get to its optimal temperature. · Drive with lights on in the snow. You want people to be able to see you. · Clear the windows of ice and snow before you leave while the car has an opportunity to warm up. With these tips in mind, Team Dover can enjoy the winter holiday safely.