Snow Go, It's that time of year Options

[RocketScott]

I just got back from a cannonball run to Canada. I didn't check the weather this morning other than walking out the door and deciding it looked good. Two hours into the drive I realized I made a mistake. What should have taken 3 hours took 6. I'm lucky I didn't end up in a ditch like lots of other people (usually an idiot with a 4x4 that doesn't know how to drive it).

I was really surprised how well the Celica did in the slushy snow. It felt smooth and balanced even with four mismatched tires. I bought a set of chains at a Canadian Tire while I was up there but didn't really feel like I needed them for the trip home.

So down to the questions. I've never used chains before. Is there some sort of rule for when to put them on? I also have a set of snow tires I need to get mounted. They don't have studs but I'm considering getting studs. Anyone else drive in snow on a regular basis?