SAFETY from pg . 21
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• Get the vehicle a tune-up . In addition to tires , be sure the braking system , battery and other major components of the vehicle are in good working order .
• Replace windshield wipers . Reduced visibility can compromise the safety of drivers and their passengers . Replace windshield wiper blades before winter arrives . Consider purchasing winter-rated windshield blades .
• Know how to recover from a skid . When skids occur on black ice or slush , drivers should take their feet off of the pedals and steer gently in the direction they want to go . As the vehicle regains traction , only then should the brakes or accelerator be applied . Winter weather requires making some vehicle modifications , and drivers may want to alter the way they drive to be more safe on the road . ❇❇
EVERY BATTERY FOR EVERYNEED ®
Hours M-F 7:30-5:30 ; Sat . 8-Noon
71 River Street , Rutland , VT 802-786-9075
Visit us online or see an authorized dealer www . interstatebatteries . com
22 • 2017 Fall Vermont Home , Garden & Car
TIRES from pg . 21
• Snow tires are particularly helpful for people who cannot wait for roads to be cleared before they begin their days . Snow tires provide greater traction in wet , snowy or slushy conditions . Snow tires provide ample grip and make it easier for cars to turn corners and stop on slick roads .
• As the mercury falls , the rubber used to make traditional tires can become hard and less pliable , compromising their ability to grip the road . However , many snow tires are made with a specialized rubber that remains supple even in very cold temperatures , making it easier for the tire to hug the roadways even when those roads are in poor condition .
• People who live in very cold climates and areas where snow and ice dominate the landscape for several months per year often find all-season tires are inadequate and likely to slip . Snow tires make for safer alternatives in such regions .
• Snow tires are typically manufacturered the previous summer , meaning inventory is finite , according to Consumer Reports . Drivers who wait until the first snowstorm to purchase their snow tires may encounter limited inventory and find it difficult to locate the right size tire for their vehicles . That ’ s why it ’ s important to shop early .
• Retire snow tires earlier than you would all-season tires . Snow tires lose almost all of their effectiveness once they reach 6 / 32-inch deep tread . Snow tires can make roads safer for drivers who live in locales with long , snowy winters . They also are ideal for drivers who desire more traction , cornering and stopping capacity on winter roadways .