El Paso To Get Blast Of Winter Weather-De-Ice Your Windshield Safely

El Paso doesn't get much winter weather, but when we do get a wintery blast, like we might this week, you might need to deal with icy or foggy windows. If you want to get on the road without having to hassle with your windshield, check out these tips:

1. Make your own de-icer - Never pour hot water on an icy windshield. It could crack or shatter the glass. Get a spray bottle and combine two parts of 70% isopropyl alcohol and one part water. Spray the liquid on your windshield and let it loosen the ice for a couple of minutes and then use your windshield wipers to clear the slush.

2. Help the de-icer - Once you've sprayed your windshield, put the defroster on the warmest setting on high for the front and rear windshields. It helps melt the ice on the outside.

3. Don't warm up your car - Car experts say warming up your car is bad for your engine. They say it has to do with gasoline and cylinder walls and lubricants. I have no idea what it all means but if Popular Mechanics says not to warm up your car, you probably shouldn't.

4. Avoid foggy windows - Foggy windows happen because of condensation inside the vehicle. Even though El Paso is a dry climate, the difference in air temperature inside and outside your car can lead to foggy windows. To help cut down on that, experts say to leave a sock with kitty litter in your car to help absorb excess humidity.

It might not happen often, but knowing how to deal with an icy or foggy windshield will save you a lot of time on a cold winter morning.