Winter

Use daylight saving time as a reminder to change the batteries in smoke alarms and to prepare your auto for the winter ahead with the listed suggestions. Window Watcher

Check the front and back windows of vehicles for small cracks in the glass. Frigid temperatures can make a tiny crack spider into a visual hazard. And some law enforcement agencies ticket for cracked windshields. Car maintenance specialists suggest replacing windshield wipers twice a year. Wipers should ideally make a clean sweep across the windshield without sticking or leaving streaks. Change windshield washer fluid in the winter. There is seasonal wiper fluid formulated to not freeze, and to remove ice and frost from windows. Engine Matters

Look for specials on oil and lube jobs. Have the oil changed, the transmission checked and other fluids topped off. On older vehicles have the radiator checked for leaks and ask the mechanic to check the battery, brakes, and wheel alignment. Tire Test

Icy roads, snow, and hail can all make for hazardous driving conditions. Minimize accidents with tires designed for winter weather. Change over to snow tires or insure the tires on your car are in good condition. Check the treads of tires and sidewalls for signs of wear. Use a tire gauge to make sure air pressure in tires is filled to manufacturer specifications; and always have a useable spare tire in the vehicle. Stash a bag of kitty litter in the trunk, and use it to give tires traction when they’re spinning in ice. Bright Lights

Have a friend help you with checking the exterior lights on your vehicle. Headlights, taillights, signal lights, and emergency lights should all be in working order to minimize the risk of a winter fender bender. SOS

Sign up with a roadside service through your auto insurance provider, AARP, or AAA. Know what emergency services they provide and add their contact info to mobile devices.