Sever weather can happen in a blink of an eye, so here are 9 helpful tips to help you and your passengers arrive alive.

In a perfect world you would be able to stay home, curl up in your favorite pajamas, and read a good book while listening to the rainfall. In the real world it doesn’t always work out like that. If going out is a must, practice some of these safe-driving tips.

THE FIRST RAIN FALL CAN BE THE MOST DANGEROUS

The beginning of the storm can be the most dangerous when rain and oil mix that equals more slippery and more dangerous conditions. The rain will eventually wash away the oils, but that is when puddle form and hydroplaning can become a factor.

SLOW DOWN

When raining make sure to slow down. You have more control and more reaction time if necessary. Rain can make the roads very slippery, and cause visibility to decrease.

DO NOT TRY TO DRIVE THROUGH PUDDLES (No matter how big of a splash you want to make)

Puddles of water can hide potholes, or be deeper than they look. Avoid driving through them, while keeping the vehicles around you in mind.

Driving through flooded areas can cause car damage and can even be deadly. Avoid these areas at all costs. Two feet of rushing water is enough to sweep SUVs and larger trucks away. It only takes a foot of water to cause permanent destruction on your vehicle. Do yourself and your wallet a favor and avoid driving through puddles.

HYDROPLANING? DON’T PANIC

If you start to hydroplane first things first, do not panic and try to over correct. Over correcting can put you in a situation you can’t come back from. Take a deep breath and take your foot off the gas and steer in a safe direction away from danger. Make sure to keep in mind the cars around you as well.

To avoid hydroplaning slow down, turn off cruise control, and try to avoid sudden breaking and quick turns.

TURN ON YOUR HEADLIGHTS

Always remember wipers on, lights on. While heavy rains usually bring darker skies and you may be able to see the cars in front of you, remember that not all cars may be able to see you. When your lights are on, make sure to not use your high beams, because if so it may reflect off the rain and distract other drivers.

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE

Try to keep a safe distance from larger vehicles and trucks. The back spray can block your vision, if you can find a safe opportunity to pass them.

HEAD FOR HIGHER GROUND

If the storm becomes too severe to drive in, head for higher grounds to ride it out or until it passes. Make sure to stay away from isolated tress, poles and other tall objects incase of lightning and strong winds.

FLIP ON DEFROSTERS AND SET AC OR HEAT TO FRESH AIR

By turning on your defrosters you can reduce window fog, and keep your vision clear.

BE PREPARED

Help yourself out in these situations and prepare ahead of time. Make sure your headlights, wiper blades, tires and brakes are all in working condition.

Arrive alive!