Bitterly cold temperatures will continue throughout this week getting down to double-digits below zero.

With those colder temperatures, its a good idea to keep in mind some safety precautions to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Everett Beebe with McAtee Tire and Service in Jefferson says one of the best things you can do for your vehicle is always have a full tank of gas.  The fuller the tank, the less problems your vehicle will have like making sure the gas lines don’t freeze and if you get stuck on the road, you can keep warm by running your vehicle.

He stresses the need to have your coolant levels always full in the winter and that it is good to 30-degrees below zero.  Beebe notes that if you are traveling in ten-degrees below zero but then you drive into the wind, it could be about 30-degrees below zero hitting the inside of the engine.

Other safety precautions include having properly working wiper blades to prevent buildup of ice on your windshield, adequate tire pressure with good treads and a functioning battery.  Beebe recommends getting your battery checked and having it replaced every four to five years.  He adds that you should allow your vehicle an extra 10-15 minutes to warm up if you are going to travel on the highway or five minutes if you are traveling anywhere in town.