The unpredictable weather and road conditions of the winter season can make driving both stressful and dangerous at times. But with a little bit of preparedness, you can help make sure that you and your vehicle will be able to safely make it from Point A to Point B all season long.

Get your car in shape for the upcoming months by taking a little bit of time now for some routine checkups and DIY maintenance. Follow these tips for safe winter travels:

• Check and fill all fluids. From washer fluid to oil to coolant, liquids are a winter driver’s best friend. Ensure that all of the essentials are properly changed out or filled according to your car manufacturer’s specifications to keep the engine running through the coldest of night drives and during all of the long holiday road trips ahead.
• Get a headlight restorer. The short days and long nights of winter can also make for hazardous driving in the dark. Approximately 2,300 pedestrians are killed every year because of poor nighttime visibility conditions. Put safety first by purchasing a simple headlight lens restoration kit to clean and revive dirty or cloudy lights for a better shine and some much-needed headlight renewal.
• Watch your tires. Many cars today come with all-season tires, but depending on where you live, you may still want to opt for snow tires or take the time to rotate from front to back. No matter your climate, though, now is the time to measure the tread and air pressure of your tires to make sure that you can depend on them for traction on wet or slippery winter roads.
• Pack an emergency kit. Despite your best precautions — whether you’ve just bought the best new tires or went through your headlight lens restoration kit step by step — accidents can still happen on the road. Make sure you have an emergency kit in your car at all times that includes some first aid, road flares, thick blankets, and even a few snacks or cash.

Don’t take chances on the road. Be smart and be safe: Prepare your car ahead of time for the winter months ahead.