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in si de ha lto n. co m O ak vi lle B ea ve r | T hu rs da y, O ct ob er 24 ,2 01 9 | 2 The colder months have arrived and it's time to make that annual appointment to take your summer tires off and swap them for winter tires. If you're in the market for new winter tires, it can be an exhausting process when narrowing down on which type to buy. Here are some tips to help you choose the snow tires for your driving needs. It is best to get an early start on changing your tires. Snow tires are not just optimal for driving in the snow, they are great for driving in cooler weather too. On account of the way snow tires are constructed, they should be changed when the outdoor tem- perature begins to drop below 7 degrees Celsius. All-season tires are functional and perform well, especially in warmer weather, but they can become hard and stiff in cold- er seasons. Snow tires are softer and more adhesive, providing better traction on icy snowy surfaces and providing a safer drive. The tread and design are important fac- tors to consider when choosing snow tires. You may decide to go with directional tread patterns for instance. These are designed to roll in one direction providing better driv- ing and stopping capabilities on winter roads. Winter speci� c tires can improve braking performance by up to 20 per cent. The thread compound should maintain � ex- ibility for the ultimate grip. Lastly, when choosing snow tires, locate the severe snow conditions symbol inside on the inside of each tire, this means they meet the snow traction standard recognized by the Rubber Manufacturers Association. Purchasing snow tires is an economical investment that will ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. How to choose snow tires Winter is quickly approaching which means the roads will be covered in snow, sleet, and ice - all of the factors that make driving conditions less than ideal. It's time to start thinking about the precaution- ary measures you should take to protect yourself and others on the road this winter season. Here are three necessary ways to equip your vehicle when the temperature drops. Keep your vehicle stocked What you keep inside your car is just as important as anything else when preparing for driving on the road this winter. All year round it is a great idea to have an emer- gency kit. These kits usually include but not limited to: a � ashlight, multi-function screw- driver, seat belt cutter, bandages, � rst-aid tape, jumper cables, and an emergency blanket. For winter, you should include seasonal speci� c items that will come in handy if needed. This includes a thick blanket in case of stalling along with extra gloves, socks, and hand warmers. Lastly, keep- ing a snow brush and ice scraper is the ultimate tool to have on hand. You never know when it's going to snow during the day and its best to be prepared. Don't forget to remove the snow on top of your vehicle, otherwise excess of heavy snow can slide forward onto your windshield can obscure your vision. Check your � uids A vehicle's � uids are vital for a better driv- ing experience. Swapping your regular wind- shield washer � uid for winter � uid in your reservoir will do wonders for your vehicle this season. Winter speci� c washer � uid contains additional additives such as meth- anol, ethanol, or glycol that will lower the freezing point of the liquid and do a better job of cleaning off any excess ice or snow and it will coat your windshield too. Additionally, including gasoline line anti- freeze and stabilizers to your vehicle can be useful when condensation has formed in the lines. Without fuel stabilizers, poor fuel circulation can occur and prevent and the engine from starting. It provides better fuel economy and ensures your car doesn't stall in the peak of winter. Change parts and accessories Pay attention to your wiper blades. They may be worn down and need replacement. Switching over to winter wiper blades will make your snowy and rainy commute a lot less stressful. They are thicker and heavier which means they can do a better job at removing whatever comes your way. They can easily push ice and snow off your wind- shield better than regular blades. Lastly, checking your battery is a great precautionary measure you can take this winter. Batteries are more likely to fail in colder months as your vehicle needs more current to � ght the cold. If your battery is old or low, considering getting a replace- ment. Prepare your car this winter with these steps and you will be ready for anything that comes your way. Prepare your vehicle for winter Open a new magical world through Safe Winter Tires WS51WP72 Wi31 wwwwww.kumhotire.ca.kumhotire.ca 928 Winston Churchill Blvd. (at Royal Windsor) 905-338-9919 jensentire.ca Don't wait for the snow & slop! Get your tire appointment now and be safe sooner than later.