If you get stuck in a situation like this, having an emergency kit with such basics as a blanket, some warm clothing and a cell phone could save your life.

Looked at a calendar lately? Time sure is flying! Holidays are rolling now, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. But the most wonderful time of the year is also the most dangerous time of year to be on the roads.

According to the AAA, loss of visibility, slick roads and poorly maintained brakes lead to thousands of accidents every year, and the highest number of weather-related injuries and fatalities occur during the wet and snowy months of winter. Take precautions to help prevent accidents, and to be prepared, just in case.

Now — before the flakes start flying — is the time to winterize your vehicle. Start by making sure it is well maintained and in good working order. Here's a checklist of things to inspect:

• Check all fluids and replenish if necessary.

It may be time for a flush and refill of the cooling system if it's been more than a couple of years since the coolant has been changed. The level, condition and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water is usually recommended.

Additionally, the condition of hoses should be checked for cracks and leaks.

• Change oil regularly. Synthetic motor oils are more expensive, but have better low temperature fluidity and a lower coefficient of friction than mineral-based motor oils. This may make for easier start-ups on cold weather days.

• Have your vehicle's battery checked to make sure it is strong enough to make it through the winter.

A dead battery can make a cold winter morning a miserable one. If your battery is beyond its recommended service life, replace it. Top any low battery cells with distilled water. Clean and tighten battery terminals to ensure electricity gets from the battery to the starter on chilly fall mornings.

If corrosion is present, clean it with a mixture of baking soda and water, and put on a set of battery washers to keep corrosion from coming back. Make sure the battery terminals and hold downs are tight. It's also good to clean and lubricate hinges and the hood latch.

• Check tire tread depth and tire pressure; consider special tires if snow or ice are a problem in your area.

Worn tires can be extremely dangerous in rain, snow and ice. Examine tires for remaining tread life and uneven wearing. Be sure to check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks as well. All-season radials or winter tires are a wise investment for those who must drive in inclement weather regularly. Check tire pressure once a month and rotate tires as recommended by the manufacturer. Don't forget to check your spare and be sure the jack functions properly.

• Check to see that all lights work and headlights are properly aimed.

• Be certain the heater and defroster are working properly.

• Change your windshield wiper blades if your current ones are worn or UV damaged to ensure good visibility during the season's rain or snow storms.

If you don't have an ice-scraper, buy one before you need it.

It's always good to be a defensive driver, but it's especially important in inclement weather. Good winter driving depends on using common sense and adjusting your driving to weather conditions.

• Keep your gas tank full to minimize condensation, and provide an extra margin of comfort and safety in case of delays.

It's important to keep gas lines from freezing in cold weather. No vehicle can run if it can't get fuel. A full gas tank will help prevent moisture and ice from forming. Particularly cold weather may warrant using a fuel deicer to prevent fuel lines from freezing.

A block heater is another option that is fairly inexpensive and easy to use.

• Don't use your cruise control or overdrive when it's freezing (or colder).• Trucks take longer to stop, so don't cut in front of them.• Don't get overconfident with four-wheel drive. It helps you get going quicker but won't help you stop any faster.• Add weight to the rear of your car or truck for better traction. If you drive a car, add weight to the trunk by using sandbags.If you drive one of the more than 38 million registered trucks on the roads, you should add weight to the truck bed.Finally, keep emergency supplies in your vehicle. Here's a list of some items that will come in handy if you're stranded:• Basic safety equipment such as emergency cash, scraper and brush, small shovel, jumper cables, tow chain, and a bag of sand or cat litter for tire traction.• An emergency breakdown kit that includes road flares, blanket, gloves, boots, warm clothing, flashlight, extra batteries, food, water and first-aid kit.• A CB radio or cellular phone can be a lifesaver for you or another stranded motorist in the event of an emergency or collision.These tips and a little common sense will keep you and your family safe on the road this winter.

It's much easier to perform simple car maintenance when the sun is still shining and the snow has yet to fly.