DETROIT - General Motors recently posted a short list of winter weather driving tips that you might want to pass along to drivers. The tips focus on emergency situations and remind drivers about basic preventive maintenance they should follow up on before heading out onto the road.

The company offered the following tips:

• Be prepared for emergencies – keep a blanket, boots, an extra pair of gloves and a flashlight in the trunk of your car

• Be sure your car has a communications lifeline in case of emergency

• Keep your fuel tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-ups in cold weather climates

• Have your battery and coolant system checked. Older batteries and weak antifreeze might not provide the protection and functionality in the cold weather, and worse, can cause damage to your vehicle when it's not running

• Understand how anti-lock brakes work. Do not pump your brakes. Instead, press firmly on the brake pedal when braking and let the system do the work to stop your car

• Traction mats, kitty litter, or sand can be used to improve traction on icy surfaces

• Be sure to have the proper winter-rated tires on your car and be sure to keep them properly inflated

• Keep an ice and snow scraper with you at all times and be sure to stow it safely when driving