MADISON, Wis. -- With the season's first accumulating snow fall, AAA Wisconsin is reminding motorists of some important winter driving and survival tips.

Winter Driving Tips:

Clear snow and ice from vehicle to improve visibility. Include hood, roof, trunk, turn signals, tail lights and headlights.

Slow down when visibility and road conditions are impaired, and increase the following distance between vehicles.

Anticipate dangers including ice on bridges, hidden lane markings, stalled cars and poor visibility.

Use proper winter braking techniques. For cars without anti-lock brakes, use "squeeze" or "threshold" braking by applying the brakes just short of lock-up, then easing off the brake pedal slightly. For vehicles with anti-lock brakes, continuous, firm braking is necessary.

Avoid skids by easing off the accelerator and not locking up the brakes. In a skid, carefully steer in the direction you want your vehicle to go and straighten the wheel as soon as the car begins to go in the desired direction.

If you become stranded in the winter, AAA advises that it is usually best to stay with your vehicle rather than risk exposure or becoming lost while seeking help. In these cases, a winter survival kit could save your life. AAA recommends all motorists carry the following items in their vehicles during the winter months.

Survival Gear:

Cell phone

Ice scraper & brush

Boots, gloves, hat, blanket

Tools & flashlight

Tire traction material such as sand or cat litter

Shovel

Jumper cables

Flares or reflective triangle

Food

Coffee can furnace

First aid kit

Online Resources:

Winter Car Care brochure: www.AAA.com/aaa/047/PDF/CarCare.pdf

Winter Car Care ad slick (safety tips): www.AAA.com/aaa/047/PDF/WinterTips.pdf