Winter storms are hitting the country, shutting down schools from the Midwest to the East Coast and even in the South. Cities that have never had to deal with snowy roads, like Atlanta, Ga., are buying up snow tires, and drivers are learning to drive on ice for the first time.

At Approved Loan Store, we want to provide our readers with some easy ways to prepare for inclement weather. Read on, follow our tips, and stay safe on the road this winter.

1. Avoid Distractions

Cell phone usage while driving is always dangerous, but during winter weather, it is important to eliminate other distractions that aren’t typically a problem. Some drivers might want to turn off their music and avoid eating or drinking while driving. Anyone who gets behind the wheel needs to be attentive and ready to react in case something goes wrong.

2. Emergency Kit

If something happens and a driver is stranded, an emergency kit can be a life saver. An emergency kit should include everything necessary to survive freezing weather including layered warm clothes (sweatshirts, long johns, sweat pants), a sleeping bag or blankets, jumper cables, first aid supplies, a snow scraper, a flashlight, food (dried fruit, granola bars), and water. It might also be a good idea to include a cell phone charger that plugs into the lighter, in case someone needs to call for emergency services.

3. No Unnecessary Driving

This step is pretty self-explanatory and simple to follow, and yet people continue not to follow it. In the middle of winter, almost everyone gets a touch of cabin fever. It is completely understandable, but it is also important to use some common sense. If the weather is really bad and the trip unnecessary, it is okay to wait until the roads are clear and the weather has improved.

Are you ready to get into a great new or used car, truck, or minivan? Now is the time to buy, and Approved Loan Store can help you find the car you want at terms you can afford, even if you have credit problems! Get started today by filling out our secure online auto loan application here, and for more auto news and buying tips, like Approved Loan Store on Facebook, follow Approved Loan Store on Twitter, and subscribe to Approved Loan Store on YouTube!

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