FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): It’s only a matter of time until snow is on the roadways.

The Indiana Department of Transportation wants Hoosiers to be safe this winter.

“Snow is on the way — that we know for sure,”  Nichole Hacha-Thomas with INDOT said. “The very first thing that we recommend Hoosier drivers do is get their car winterized and do that pre-winter inspection.”

Below is a list of things to check to winterize your vehicle.

Take a look at the battery 

“You want to make sure that has enough juice in it to get you through the winter,” Hacha-Thomas said. “And, it’s not going to act up or cause you trouble this winter.”

Antifreeze Levels

Anitfreeze lowers the freezing point of liquid in vehicles. It keeps water in the radiator and engine from freezing in cold temperatures.

Wipers and wiper fluid

It’s important to check your wipers and wiper fluid. You want to have new wipers to wipe away snow.

Ignition system

You don’t want to be stranded in the middle of winter.

Thermostat

“Then, your thermostat,” she said. “That’s what regulates the heat in your car. So, you always want to make sure that is ready to go before winter.”

Lights, flashers, blinkers

It’s always a good idea to check that your lights are properly working.

Brakes

“Get your brakes checked,” she said. “Those get a workout during Hoosier winters with the constant braking on the snow and ice.”

Tires

You want to make sure you have good tires and have good tread.

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