It might be hard to believe with the dry winter we’ve had this year, but snow is headed our way in the next few days, bringing less than ideal driving conditions with it. 

The National Weather Service Twin Cities is predicting snow accumulation of 3-5 inches Thursday night, with more to come on Sunday. The predicted snowfall will mean that snowplows will be out to keep our state, county and city roads safe.  

Snowplows have a job to do, and they need room to do it. Driving too close to plows can be extremely dangerous. Please, if you're out on the roads during a winter weather event, don't crowd the plow.  

Do your part by driving smart: 

• Be patient and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip. 
• Stay at least 10 car lengths behind the plow, far from the snow cloud. 
• Stay alert for snowplows that turn or exit frequently and often with little warning. 
• Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions and give yourself plenty of travel time.

Before traveling, check current road conditions at 511mn.org and tell someone where you're going and what route you're taking. It's good to have a full tank of gas in case of an emergency, and always clear snow and ice from vehicle windows, hood, headlights, brake lights and directional signals before you leave. Remember — headlights must be turned on when there is precipitation present — it's the law. 

Once you’re on the road, stay on designated roads and avoid shortcuts that might not be plowed or patrolled. It’s also a good idea to keep essential items in the car in a winter survival kit. Your kit should include: 

• Boots, jackets, gloves. 
• Blankets. 
• Cell phone charger. 
• Flashlight and spare batteries. 
• Bottled water and snacks. 
• Booster cables. 
• Basic tools. 
• Sand or cat litter for tire traction. 
• Red bandana to use as a distress signal. 

If you do run into problems and get stranded, turn on your hazard lights and call 911 for help. Stick a red bandana out the window, clear snow from your car's exhaust pipe and open a window for ventilation to avoid the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Once you’ve completed those tasks, stay in the car, running the engine occasionally to keep warm and charge your cell phone. Keep your phone on so you can keep in touch with emergency responders. If it is dark, turn on your vehicle's interior light to make it easier for rescuers to find you. 

For more information on safe winter driving, visit our Office of Traffic Safety winter driving webpage. ​