The recent snowfalls have caught many Iowa State students off guard, especially those who are forced to drive in the adverse conditions.

It is wise to take precautions and be prepared for the many months of winter driving that lie ahead.

Dennis Burkheimer, of the Iowa Department of Transportation, wants to make sure everyone is prepared.

“Normally there is more time before it hits, so make sure you’re ready,” he said.

To prepare for the winter ahead, it is important to check windshield wipers; have the motor tuned; check the brakes, defroster, heater, hoses, battery, alternator, belts, tires, lights, exhaust system and fluid levels; have sufficient antifreeze; and equip the vehicle for emergencies, Burkheimer said.

“If you’re traveling any long distance, have a set of chains in the trunk you can put on, and be sure you know how,” said Loras Jaeger, director of Public Safety.

“Also, have a full tank of gas — it gives weight,” he said.

Some important items to keep in your trunk include water, food, blankets, extra clothes, flares, a shovel, a tool kit, jumper cables, an ice scraper and snow brush, a good spare tire, a lug wrench and jack, a flashlight, extra batteries, matches or a lighter, a small first aid kit and sand.

“If you are stranded, stay with your vehicle and stay calm,” Burkheimer said. All of this can improve the chances of survival, he added.

One of the main causes of accidents in the winter is people driving too fast for the conditions.

“Come Thanksgiving, a few students get in accidents because of speed,” Jaeger said.

“People aren’t used to the iciness and slickness,” said Butch Hansen, owner of Butch’s Amoco in Ames. “People over-correct, and we end up towing them out of ditches,” he said.

Many lock up their brakes, and while anti-lock brakes help a little, there is still a danger of sliding. “Over-steering and over-braking are the two primary things that get people into trouble,” he said.

Hansen advises people to stay on the primary roads because they are cleared first.

“In the worst of times, if you don’t really have to be somewhere, don’t drive,” he said.

Adequate tires are very important, and if your car is rear-wheel drive, add sandbags. Front-wheel drive cars are not as bad because of the weight of the engine over the wheels, he added.

Burkheimer said it is important to slow down, especially when it is snowing, because you don’t know where the slippery spots are.

“Take extra time to prepare and don’t hurry to get there,” he said.

Also be aware of the yellow lights of snow plows. The plows only go 25 to 30 mph, so slow down for them, he added.

“Be prepared — winter is here, and do those things to prepare your vehicle and yourself,” Burkheimer said.

On campus, there is priority parking if serious problems with snow develop, like an overnight storm, Jaeger said.

If you must drive in bad winter conditions, be aware of your surroundings and arm your vehicle to defend you against the dangers of Iowa roads in the winter, he said.