Just about everyone travels by car.
Winter might restrict some of those trips, but the need to travel through cold, snow or ice remains a necessity for most of us. Rough winter weather conditions are predicted this weekend for the Gorge and western Oregon. It’s a good time, at the outset of the cold weather season, to review recommendations courtesy of the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Overall, drivers should prepare their vehicles for winter driving conditions and drive with extra caution. Put warm clothes, flares, extra food, and other emergency essentials in the car.

Ensure your heater and defroster are working properly. Test all lights and carry spare bulbs. Use antifreeze that’s good to 25 degrees below; check and fill washer and other fluids and make sure hoses aren’t loose or brittle. Other tips:

•  Keep wipers clean and in good condition; fill the windshield washer tank.

•  Make certain your battery is fully charged; also check battery age and make sure cables are not loose or corroded.

•  Ensure your tires are in good condition and properly inflated for best traction, including your spare.

•  Carry chains or use traction tires in winter.

•  Keep an automotive safety kit in your vehicle.

While driving, remember:

•  Turn off your cruise control.

•  If you lose traction and your vehicle feels like it’s floating, gradually slow down. Don’t slam on the brakes.

•  Use caution when driving on bridges or concrete highways. These surfaces are the first to freeze and become slippery when the temperature drops.

•  Slow down in advance of shaded areas, especially on curves. Shaded areas are cooler and may have ice that is difficult to see.

•  Don’t pass snowplows or sanders, and don’t follow them too closely.

(On Highway 35 near Odell there is a black-and-white “Do Not Pass Snowplows on Right” sign. Several years ago, someone fashioned a sign and put it on the post. It read, “Duh.” Yet, people still try it.)

For road conditions in Oregon, call 511 or (800) 977-ODOT (6368). Outside Oregon, dial (503) 588-2941. Reports are available 24 hours a day. Visit www.TripCheck.com for information on road and weather conditions, incidents and traffic delays.