It was a nice weekend but now the weatherman is predicting that we could get a substantial snowfall here in McHenry this week. When the snow gets heavy, there is always the risk that your car will get stuck in the snow.

If you don’t know how to get out of the snow when stuck you’re as stranded as if the car won’t start at all. But if you know how to react when you get stuck in the snow, the problem is seldom insurmountable. The first thing to remember is to keep your head.

We’ve all seen that person who is stuck and is sitting with the tires spinning rapidly but not moving at all. They’re wasting their time and their gasoline.

There are techniques for getting out of the snow when your car is stuck. And if the weatherman is right about the snow expected for McHenry this week, you may have reason to try out these techniques. It’s not so bad as long as you know what to do.

Steps to remember when your car is stuck in the snow:

• Clear a path for the tires. It’s a good idea to keep a small shovel or spade in the car so you can dig the snow out from in front and back of the tires. When you dig a path, try to dig paths the tires can follow to freedom.
• Don’t – DON’T – floor it. Giving the engine more gas won’t help a bit if you don’t have traction. There tires will merely spin futilely. Learn to get a feel for the accelerator.
• Try to drive straight forward until you’re free. Trying to turn while stuck makes it more difficult to get through the snow. At least try to give yourself a little straightaway to get going before you have to turn.
• Add some traction. Sand and kitty litter are good for adding traction. Pour some of one or the other in front and back of the tires. Sometimes, you can even try a piece of cardboard for some traction.
• Let a little air out of the tires. Don’t let too much out – you’ll still want to drive when you get out of the snow. But releasing a little air can give the tires more traction when getting unstuck. Don’t forget to fill the tires up again later.
• Get someone to push. Keep in mind that, if you spin the tires, you may spray your pushers with dirty snow, ice and mud. You might want to consider what they’re wearing.
• Rock the vehicle. Rocking forward and backward while trying to get unstuck can work wonders.

If none of these options work, hopefully, you have roadside service you can call – someone with a tow truck who can come pull you out. However, if you try the techniques above, chances are, you won’t need to make that call. You’ll be prepared to get unstuck when the snow falls in McHenry this week.