By Bianca Zaharescu & Maddy Hamlin
Gargoyle senior editor & staff reporter
Posted Thursday, Nov. 30, 2006, The OG, news

THE WEATHER IS getting chilly, and C-U is predicted to get lots of snow in the next two days. Do you know how to drive safely during or after a snowstorm?

Here are some top tips for driving in winter weather:

1. Always turn on your low beams when driving in snow or sleet (or anytime that you need your windshield wipers on). This will help increase visibility.

2. Never brake while driving on ice. If you see a patch of ice ahead, brake before you reach it.

3. If you feel the car start to slip in freezing conditions, just SLOWLY take your foot off the accelerator. Once your wheels regain traction, gently steer in the direction you want your front wheels to go.

4. Stopping distance increases significantly in icy conditions. Drive slowly, leaving lots of extra space between you and the car in front of you.

5. Always carry an ice scraper with a brush in your car in case it begins to snow or sleet. Also be sure that you have wiper fluid or a de-icer on hand.

For more advice, visit The Weather Channel's safety tips for driving in snow and ice.