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Wisconsin winter driving – how to stay safe

Winter driving in Wisconsin can be a challenge, especially if you’re not prepared. The cold temperatures, wind, snow, and ice can make the roads rough, slippery, and dangerous. It’s important to take extra precautions to ensure that your car is ready to handle the conditions. One of the most important things you can do is to make sure your tires are in good condition.

Here are a few tips to help you navigate Wisconsin’s winter roads safely: 

  1. Check your tire tread. Tires with good tread are essential for winter driving, as they provide better traction on slippery roads. To check your tire tread, use the “penny test”: take a penny and place it head-down into the tread of your tire. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too low and it’s time to replace your tires. If you can’t see his head, your tread is still good. 

  1. Consider winter tires. Winter tires are specifically designed for use in cold temperatures and are made with a rubber compound that remains flexible even in freezing temperatures. This helps to improve traction on slippery roads. If you live in an area of Wisconsin that experiences particularly harsh winters, it may be worth investing in a set of winter tires. 

  1. Keep your tires inflated. Proper tire inflation is vital for a number of reasons, including safety. Underinflated tires can cause a car to handle poorly and increase the risk of a blowout. In the winter, cold temperatures can cause tires to lose pressure, so it’s essential to check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them as needed. 

  1. Rotate your tires. Rotating your tires on a regular basis helps to ensure even wear and can extend the life of your tires. Rotating your tires in the winter is especially important, as the added weight of snow and ice can cause uneven wear. 

  1. Check your spare tire. If you get a flat tire on a slippery road, it’s important to have a spare tire that’s in good condition. Make sure to check your spare tire regularly to ensure it’s properly inflated and ready for use. 

In addition to taking care of your tires, there are a few other things you can do to prepare your car for winter driving in Wisconsin: 

  1. Check your car’s fluid levels. Cold temperatures can cause your car’s fluid levels to drop, so it’s important to check the levels of oil, coolant, and other fluids regularly. 

  1. Keep your car’s battery charged. Cold temperatures can cause car batteries to lose their charge more quickly, so it’s important to keep your battery charged and in good condition. 

  1. Clear snow and ice from your car before driving. It’s important to clear snow and ice from your car’s windows, headlights, and mirrors before driving. This will help you to see clearly and improve your visibility on the road. 

By following these tips and taking good care of your tires, you can stay safe on Wisconsin’s winter roads and ensure that your car is ready to handle whatever Mother Nature throws your way. If you need help or advice with your winter driving, contact us today. At Chaseburg Co-op we’re your locally-owned Co-op since 1947 and are always here to help.