JACKSON, Tenn – (November 17, 2014) — All of the signs are here, Winter weather is back.  Temperatures are dropping into the teens at night.  Any precipitation can making bridges and overpasses slick , and create dangerous driving conditions.

Before you hit the road make sure your vehicle is winter-ready.  Preform a maintenance check of brakes, fluid levels, proper tire pressure and other maintenance suggestions.  You should maintain a full tank of gas. Replace windshield wipers and wiper fluid is also a good idea.

The simplest thing you can do to combat the cold weather is to keep a few essential supplies and tools with you as you drive.  A kit that contains basic items you may need in the event of an emergency. An emergency kit should include salt or cat litter, a shovel, a flashlight, a blanket and a battery operated radio. You should also keep maps, a tool kit, extra weather gear and non-perishable foods on hand in case of emergency.

It’s also a good idea to carry your cell phone with you at all times.

Law enforcement reminds you to wear your seat belt at all times, it’s especially important to do so during winter’s slick conditions. They also advise that your speed should depend on road conditions and visibility. Leave early and allow yourself extra time to arrive at your destination so you aren’t rushed.

Drivers should try to keep their tanks full during the winter months. If you do happen to get stranded, you can run the vehicle with the heater on periodically until help arrives.

If stranded first make sure the vehicle has plenty of airflow around the muffler so deadly carbon monoxide fumes don’t back up into the vehicle.

Following these basic safety tips, people should have a safe winter.

If your vehicle does break down, or if you’re unable to continue because of driving conditions, you should pull off the highway, remain calm and stay in your car. You should never try to walk to safety in a winter storm. Turn on your emergency flashers, raise the hood of your car and wait for help to arrive.

Lastly, before you leave, make sure you have taken care of your pets in case you are away for an extended period.  Have a neighbor, family member, or friend check on them to make sure they have food, water, and are not out in the elements.

For more information, people may visit the FEMA website at http://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit or http://www.ready.gov/kit.

4WD in an SUV will help get your car moving, but it won’t improve braking at high speeds. Thomas Cain/Getty Images