Few people enjoy driving in the snow, sleet, and ice, even those who live in “Snow Country,” and have to do it every winter.

Like me. I live in Vermont, and write very frequently on skiing, so my travels take me all over the Rocky Mountains States, often in poorly equipped rental cars in inclement conditions.

This used to stress me out, but then I visited the Bridgestone Winter Driving School in Steamboat, Colorado. Not only did I learn techniques for avoiding skids and slides caused by traction, loss, but I learned how to correct them when they do happen, and overall, how to be a much better winter (and summer) driver. I went to the class about seven or eight years ago, and while I am sure a refresher would not hurt. I still remember the most important lessons and think of them every time I drive in a winter storm.

It was also a blast.