KUSA - The first major snowstorm of the year is expected to kick off Monday night.
Ahead of the storm, 9NEWS spoke with Spencer Pace, a driving coach at Master Drive, about what to do when it comes to driving in potentially blizzard-like conditions.
See his tips below.
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1. If you don't have to go out, don't go out.
2. The biggest thing about blizzards is reduced visibility.
Only drive as fast as you can respond to the conditions in front of you. If you don't think you can respond in time, then you're driving too fast.
3. Don't use high beams during a blizzard.
The light will reflect off the snow and cause less visibility.
4. If you can't see the road, pay attention to road reflectors.
The reflectors indicate where the pavement ends and keep you in your lane.
5. Keep a kit in your car.
Be prepared in case you get stuck. Pack warm clothes, a shovel, flashlight, snacks, etc.
6. Keep rubber floor mats in your car in case you get stuck.
The mats can help you get out. Some people use kitty litter to give traction as well.
If you're stuck, don't try to force yourself out by accelerating. The friction gives enough heat to melt the snow. It will quickly refreeze -- turning it into ice under your wheels.
7.. Look as far ahead as you can while driving.
Keep an eye out for what's going on beyond your car.
8. Drive well below the speed limit.
9. Break earlier than you normally would in dry conditions.
10. Drive as smooth as possible.
Jerking motions, slamming on breaks or accelerator can cause sliding.
Cars weigh a lot. If you don't know how to control the weight, you can skid or slide.
11. If you do start to slide, look where you want to go, not at what you can hit.
Drivers tend to go where they are looking. Find a solution.
Don't touch gas or brake pedal. Sliding means the wheels are not rolling. Allow the tires to grip the ground again.
12. If you've slid off the road, make yourself visible.
Put hazards on so other drivers can see you.
13. Once you have control of the car, get to a safe spot if possible.
If you've gone off the road, the chances are that another driver could slide as well and hit you.
Staying inside the vehicle is better protection if another car does slide into you.
14. Stay in your car when waiting or a rescue vehicle
First responders will be looking for people stuck in vehicles, not standing outside off the road. It could be difficult for them to see you.
Tie a ribbon on the antenna as an indicator you're inside.
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