In many parts of the country, the days are getting shorter, the leaves are falling and football season is in full swing, as winter’s chill settles in for its annual inhospitable visit. Those either living in the Snow Belt or who plan to travel where the season’s icy sting is worst need to prepare their vehicles for the abruptly changing or adverse weather conditions they’ll encounter.

Here’s a 10 step car-care checklist to follow before the mercury plunges any further:

1. Take charge. When the temperature gets cold, a strong battery is necessary to get a car or truck’s engine started. Clean any corrosion at the terminals with a wire brush to be sure full power is being sent to the starter. Have a technician test the battery to see how well it holds a charge. Have the alternator checked at the same time.

2. Seeing is believing. Always replace a vehicle’s windshield wiper blades at the onset of winter. Ice and snow will take an added toll on a car’s wipers, and if they’re worn they won’t do an adequate job of maintaining your outward visibility. Be sure to keep the windshield washer tank filled with de-icer fluid.

3. Warm up to coolant. Check the level and condition of radiator coolant (anti-freeze). Ideally, the cooling system should be flushed and refilled every other year. Driving with low coolant levels is among the leading causes of engine problems. If the fluid needs topping off, use an equal mixture of coolant and water.

4. Change the oil. Sound motoring already dictates that a vehicle’s oil be changed according to a vehicle’s maintenance schedule. Those who live in extreme climates will want to switch to winter-grade oil for peak protection.

5. Tend to tires. Using an inexpensive tire-pressure gauge is all that’s needed to ensure a vehicle’s tires are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, including the spare. Those who own a sporty car that’s equipped with low-profile performance tires should consider switching to all-season rubber for the winter.

6. Light the way. Ensure that all of a vehicle’s lights are working properly. Test the headlamps by shining them against a wall to see that they’re properly aimed and be sure they’re clean and/or clear of ice and snow before hitting the road.

7. Give a look. Visually check the conditions of hoses and belts to ensure that they’re neither worn nor cracked and look under the vehicle for evidence of fluid or oil leaks.

8. Take the heat. Check that a vehicle’s heater, defroster and rear defogger are in good operating condition.

9. Expect the unexpected. Pack an emergency kit with a set of battery-jumper cables, a snow/ice scraper and an extra jug of washer fluid. Also stow a blanket, heavy gloves and a set of boots, a flashlight, a first-aid kit and some energy bars.

10. Drive smart. Slow down as conditions worsen and leave extra room between the traffic ahead. Brakes won’t work as well as they do on a dry road. Always drive with the lights on.