RANGELEY — Winter driving is a fact of life in the Rangeley Lakes Region and across much of rural Maine, where long distances between towns, higher elevations and rapidly changing weather can turn minor vehicle problems into serious safety concerns.

State agencies are urging drivers to prepare their vehicles well before winter storms arrive, emphasizing prevention, preparedness and caution on snow-covered roads.

With snow, ice and subzero temperatures common from late fall through early spring, the Maine Emergency Management Agency says drivers should assume delays and limited access to assistance, particularly in rural areas. MEMA recommends that motorists prepare both their vehicles and themselves for winter travel, noting that even short trips can become dangerous if weather conditions deteriorate.

As part of that preparation, MEMA advises drivers to carry a basic winter emergency kit in their vehicles. Recommended items include:
• Ice scraper and snow brush.
• Shovel.
• Jumper cables.
• Blanket or extra cold-weather clothing.
• Flashlight.
• Sand or kitty litter for traction.
• Extra windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures.

Among other recommendations are keeping snacks, water and any essential medications in the vehicle during winter months, and maintaining at least a half-tank of fuel to reduce the risk of fuel-line freeze and allow drivers to keep vehicles running for warmth if stranded.

Officials also encourage drivers to address basic vehicle maintenance before winter travel, including checking tires, wipers, fluids and battery condition, according to MaineDOT’s winter vehicle readiness guidance.

Vehicle maintenance is another key part of winter readiness, as cold temperatures place added strain on key systems and can quickly turn minor issues into breakdowns. Officials recommend checking several basic items before winter travel, including:

• Tire tread depth and air pressure, which drop as temperatures fall.
• Windshield wipers and washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures.
• Antifreeze levels to prevent engine damage.
• Battery condition, as weakened batteries are more likely to fail in cold weather.

Local auto repair shops can also help drivers prepare for winter conditions, offering inspections, maintenance and general cold-weather vehicle advice. Local auto businesses have been sharing winter car care tips and assistance for drivers heading into the colder months.

Winter road conditions also require changes in driving behavior. Even when roads appear clear, black ice and packed snow can linger on shaded sections, bridges and rural stretches. Drivers are advised to slow down, increase following distance, avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, and give plow trucks and sanding vehicles plenty of room during storms.

In western and northern Maine, winter driving also brings an added wildlife concern. Moose-vehicle collisions remain a serious hazard on rural roads, particularly in forested areas such as the Rangeley Lakes Region.

Moose are most active at dawn and dusk and are difficult to see in low-light or snowy conditions, as headlights often illuminate their legs rather than their bodies. Drivers are advised to reduce speed, remain alert in posted moose areas and scan roadsides carefully, especially during early morning and evening hours.

In rural communities, preparedness takes on added importance due to limited cellphone service and longer response times for roadside assistance. Drivers are cautioned against warming vehicles in enclosed spaces or near snowbanks due to carbon monoxide risk, and are advised to remain with their vehicles if stranded when it is safe to do so.

Additional winter driving and preparedness information is available through the Maine Emergency Management Agency and the Maine Department of Transportation.

Winter preparedness gear in the Rangeley area

Drivers looking to assemble or update a winter car kit can find many recommended items locally in and around Rangeley, including ice scrapers, shovels, warm clothing and basic vehicle supplies.

• Rangeley Lakes Builders Supply – Hardware and building supply store with items such as shovels, flashlights and basic tools.
• Alpine Shop of Rangeley – Outdoor retailer offering winter clothing and cold-weather gear.
• River’s Edge Sports (Oquossoc) – Sporting goods and outdoor gear, including warm layers and accessories useful for winter travel.
• Rangeley Region Sports Shop – Local sporting goods store with winter apparel and gear.
• Ecopelagicon, A Nature Store – General outdoor/nature store that carries cold weather accessories useful for winter travel.
• Rangeley Adventure Co. – Outdoor gear, gifts, and kayak, canoe and SUP rentals/sales.
• Rangeley IGA – Grocery store with a wide variety of products, including household, food, fuel and some outdoor/utility items. Can be a convenient stop for winter travel needs like ice melt, snacks, extra fluids, gloves and more.

Additional auto parts stores, including larger chain retailers both online and in person, are located in nearby communities such as Mexico and Farmington, and offer a wider selection of vehicle-specific winter supplies.