Practical holiday gift ideas

For the drivers on your list

Looking for Christmas gift ideas? Here are some perfect ideas for the drivers in the family, no matter their age.

Drivers this winter should have an emergency kit at the ready in their vehicles. We like all the items that AAA offers in the graphic above, and have added a few more. All can be found at your local hardware or department store:

• AAA lists jumper cables, and we'll go one step further: Put in your glove box written instructions on how to use them.
• Tow rope.
• Battery-operated radio.
• State map to use in case of a detour. Yes, even in the days of GPS, an old-fashioned map can help, and you can get them at Secretary of State branches.
• Snacks such as raisins, candy bars or other items that store well.

And it never hurts to have these on hand: an extra jug of antifreeze and a tire gauge, since tires can deflate quickly in cold weather.

Tip: Backing up in busy parking lots

The risks of a collision increase when drivers are backing out of parking spaces, and they only go up when you're shopping during the holidays. Be sure to check all around your vehicle for people walking, other cars backing up behind you and any other obstructions. If you're lucky enough to have a car with a video or sound system that helps you back up, don't solely depend on it. Also don't depend on just your mirrors - you need to visually scan the area before putting your car in reverse. If your vehicle is parked between two SUVs or trucks that block your view, back up slowly, checking for pedestrians and other vehicles. Tapping your brake pedal as you back up may increase your visibility to others. As you back up slowly, continue to scan the area. And whenever possible, park away from entrances and other cars.

The challenges of driving as the snow flies

For those of you who are brand new drivers, winter can be a challenge to navigate. It's often said that ice and snow cause most crashes in winter.  In fact, most winter weather crashes are caused by drivers going too fast for conditions. So take it slow and enjoy the holiday season! Ruth Johnson,  Secretary of State

What to do if your car gets stuck

 If you keep your speed appropriate for travel conditions, you’re well on your way to being an excellent winter driver. But you’ll likely get stuck at some point. If you do, here are helpful tips:

- To avoid slipping off the roadway, drive more slowly and give yourself more room to stop. Brake gently to prevent skidding.

- If your vehicle does get stuck, never spin your wheels. That only digs the tires in more deeply. Use a shovel to dig around the wheels and undercarriage. Turn the steering wheel from side to side to clear snow away from the front tires. Gently ease the vehicle out. If that doesn't work, try rocking the vehicle by shifting into forward and giving it some gas and then shifting it into reverse and accelerating until the vehicle is free.

- Let other people know your travel route so if you don't arrive on time, they'll know where to start looking. 

- Make sure your vehicle has fresh air by making sure the exhaust system isn't plugged by snow. Open a window or turn off your car if necessary. Carbon monoxide produced by your vehicle is a colorless, odorless gas that can kill.