With early snow hitting Oregon this Fall, The American Automobile Association reminded drivers how to survive on the roads.

On Monday, officials sent out some advice on how to avoid getting stuck and keep your car in good running condition.

AAA officials said you can avoid a break down by having a mechanic check your ignition, antifreeze, lights, exhaust, heater and defroster, brakes, tires, windshield wipers and washer fluid. Also keep an eye on the oil and filter.

AP

A motorist changes a tire amid snow drifts during the big winter storm of 2003 in the Portland area in this file photo.

“Performing proper vehicle maintenance and good trip planning could keep you from becoming one of these statistics,” AAA Oregon Approved Auto Repair Program coordinator Earl Baker said.

If you get stuck in the snow, don't gun the engine -- the tires will just dig deeper into the snow, experts said.

AAA officials released tips on how to get out of a snowy situation:

•Clear away as much snow as possible from around the tires, under the vehicle and near the exhaust pipe.

•Improve traction by scattering sand, cat litter or some other abrasive material around the front tires for front-wheel drive cars, and around the rear tires for rear-wheel drive cars. Or buy special traction mats or car floor mats.

•Put the car in low gear (automatic transmissions) or second gear (manual transmissions) and apply gentle pressure to the accelerator. Ease off if the tires begin to spin.

•If you're still unable to free the vehicle, try slowly rocking the car. Ease forward with the car in low gear (automatic transmissions) or second gear (manual transmissions). When the car will no longer go forward, release the accelerator to allow the car to roll back.

•When the vehicle stops its backward motion, apply minimum pressure on the accelerator again. Repeat these actions in rapid succession until the vehicle rolls free. CAUTION: do not rock the vehicle for prolonged periods as serious damage to the automatic transmission or clutch may occur.

•If others are available to help, have them push to assist the car's rocking motion. People pushing should not stand directly behind the wheels because of the risks from flying gravel, sand and ice. Also, they should be aware of their physical limitations. Footing can be hazardous, and overexertion can be especially dangerous in cold weather.

•If the vehicle cannot be freed, set up reflectors, flares or other signal devices as soon as possible to alert passing motorists.

•Before abandoning the vehicle, check the weather conditions. In extreme cold or in heavy snow, stay with the car until rescuers arrive.

•If you stay in the car, tie a bright cloth to the antenna to alert rescuers. Make sure snow does not block the exhaust pipe if you're running the engine -- that could cause dangerous fumes to backup inside the car.

•If you can leave your vehicle and reach shelter safely, call for help.

AAA said they'll likely help about 100,000 drivers who get stranded this year.

For winter driving officials also sent out a list of 'must-haves' for an emergency kit:

It should include a fully charged mobile phone; blankets or sleeping bags; a flashlight with extra batteries; first-aid kit; knife; drinking water; high-calorie non-perishable food; extra clothing; waterproof matches; sack of sand, cat litter, or traction mats; shovel; windshield scraper and brush; tool kit; tow rope; booster cables; compass and road maps; and emergency flares or reflectors, according to AAA.

In extreme weather, areas may require all vehicles to have chains or traction devices on tires. Oregon officials said be sure to pay attention to changing requirements as conditions vary.

  Click here for info on chain laws