NASCAR Legend and Auto Club Gear Up for Winter Driving

NORWALK, Conn., Nov. 15, 2005 -- With winter months just down the road, drivers are revving up for slick and icy roads -- even NASCAR Legend Bobby Hamilton.

"I usually don't have to worry about snow or ice on the race track," said Hamilton, AutoVantage spokesman. "But when I step off the track and into the driver's seat of my own car, I'm certainly aware of slick roads in the winter months, just like you. But worrying about bad weather won't do you any good. You must prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter driving conditions. It's quick and simple, and it could save your life."

The National Weather Service reports that 70 percent of fatalities related to ice and snow occur in automobiles.

Don't become part of that statistic. With a little prep work, you can drive more confidently on icy roads, and you'll be prepared if you get stuck in the snow.

"With the right preparation, your car can be in tip-top shape for driving during the often hazardous winter road conditions," said Brad Eggleston, vice president of AutoVantage. "AutoVantage helps you save money on winterizing your car, tune-ups and any necessary repairs for the changing seasons."

So before winter shifts into high gear, be your own crew chief. Follow these basic guidelines so you'll enjoy a safer ride:

  BEFORE YOU DRIVE

  1.  Go under your hood: Inspect or have a mechanic check to make sure your
      car is in proper working order.  Check the battery, brakes,
      lights/hazards, heater and defroster.  Also, check the fluid level on
      your wipers and antifreeze.

  2.  Buy good winter tires: The Federal Emergency Management Agency says
      that all-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter
      conditions.  However, some areas require chains or snow tires with
      studs.  Check with your local emergency management office.  But
      whatever tires you ride on, use the penny test to see if your tire
      still has tread life.  The Rubber Manufacturers Association suggests
      you place a penny, Lincoln head down, in the tread groove.  Consider
      buying new tires if you can see all of "Honest Abe's" head.

  3.  Pack it up: Another way to be prepared is to pack some emergency
      supplies for the road, just in case you get stuck in a snow or ice
      storm.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests
      you have on hand a flashlight, jumper cables, shovel, snow brush, ice
      scraper, warning devices (like flares), blankets and a small bag of
      sand or cat litter to generate traction under wheels.  And for long
      trips, it's a good idea to bring food and water.

  4.  Plan ahead: In winter conditions, be extra cautious when planning long
      trips.  Allow plenty of time so you're not in a rush.  Watch
      television or listen to radio reports for the latest weather
      conditions.  Try to travel in daylight hours and try not to travel
      alone.  And be sure to let others know the route you're taking.  If
      you must get out for a short trip in a winter storm, consider public
      transportation.  It's reliable and safe.

  5.  Gas up: During winter driving season, FEMA suggests you always keep
      your gas tank at least half full to keep from running out of gas if
      you get stuck.  You'll need the heat to keep you warm until help
      arrives.

  WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET STUCK

  1.  Stay put: If your car gets stuck in ice or snow, FEMA encourages you
      to stay in your vehicle.  Do not leave the car to search for
      assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards.

  2.  Show signs of trouble: If you don't have flares or conditions prevent
      you from displaying them, you can hang a brightly colored cloth on
      your antenna.  If nothing else, raise your hood to attract attention.

  3.  Ration your battery: FEMA says you should only occasionally run your
      engine, like about ten minutes every hour.  Run the heater when the
      car is running and turn on the car's inside light.  This will make you
      more visible in a storm.  Warning: beware of carbon monoxide
      poisoning.  Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow and even open
      a downwind window slightly for ventilation.

  4.  Keep busy: You can do minor exercises to keep up your circulation.
      Try clapping your hands and moving your arms and legs occasionally.
      And don't stay in one position for too long.

  5.  Keep warm: If you're traveling with others, you can huddle together
      for warmth.  And you can even wrap yourself in newspapers, maps and
      car mats for added insulation.

Bobby Hamilton, a spokesman for AutoVantage, is the current NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Champion after achieving four career NASCAR Winston Cup Series victories. He founded Bobby Hamilton Racing, which owns and operates three trucks in the NASCAR circuit.

About AutoVantage

Members of AutoVantage (http://www.autovantage.com/ or 1-800-876-7787) can save from 5 to 20 percent on car care at some 19,000 service locations, including participating AAMCO, Jiffy Lube, Meineke and American Car Care Center locations. AutoVantage also offers 24-hour nationwide emergency towing, roadside assistance, and lockout protection from its network of more than 10,000 emergency roadside assistance providers. Trip routing for maps and door-to-door driving directions across the U.S. is also included. AutoVantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans.

About Affinion Group

Affinion Group is a $1.5 billion global leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, delivering products and services that touch the lives of millions worldwide. The group designs, develops and implements strategies and programs serving more than 117 million consumers around the world. With approximately 3,600 employees, Affinion Group is based in Norwalk, Conn., and has operations throughout the United States and in 13 countries across Europe.