(NC) --  Driving can be dangerous during harsh winter weather if your vehicle isn't properly prepared. Start off the season right by winterizing your vehicle before taking to the road. To make sure you and your vehicle are ready for the season, Goodyear Canada has some useful tips to get you to your destination safely:

Service your vehicle: Be prepared for what Mother Nature throws your way by making sure you have enough antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid. For a correct amount of antifreeze to withstand the winter temperatures, a 50/50 mix of antifreeze to water is sufficient. You can go through windshield wiper fluid in one snowstorm, so be sure to completely fill your vehicle's reservoir before the first snowfall hits. It may be useful to buy extra, but make sure it is high-quality, “no-freeze” fluid.

Stock your vehicle: No one wants to break down, especially in cold weather, so keeping a kit with essential items is helpful in case of an emergency. Some essential items to include are blankets, water bottles, first aid kit, jumper cables, shovel, ice scraper, road flares, a candle and matches.

Practice makes perfect: It's important to be alert when driving on snow-covered roadways because slush, ice and other hazards make it difficult to change lanes and handle your vehicle. In order to know how your vehicle performs in the winter weather, it may be helpful to practice driving techniques in an empty, open parking lot. Refer to your owner's manual to fully understand your vehicle's braking and traction control systems.

Traction is Key: With hazardous winter weather ahead, now is not the time to ignore your tires. For optimum traction to navigate harsh winter conditions with confidence, consider installing a set of winter tires on your vehicle (link to: www.goodyear.ca). Goodyear has a wide range of winter tires to help meet the driving needs of virtually every consumer. Winter tires are typically designed with a specialized rubber compound that maintains its flexibility in cold weather. This helps the tire to adapt to the road surface and dig into snow and ice.

For more helpful car care advice or information on tires for cars, light trucks, SUVs and more, visit your local Goodyear retailer or go online to www.goodyear.ca.