The first flurries of the winter season have arrived, and you know what that means: It won’t be long now until the snow starts flying in earnest. 

Whether you love winter weather or would love to live without it, it’s something we’re familiar with as Minnesotans. But we could all use a reminder of how to adjust our driving habits to keep ourselves safe, especially after last year’s mild winter season. While last winter was mild with little snow, many Minnesotans were still involved in crashes.  While summer months are typically the deadliest on Minnesota roads for fatal crashes, wintertime leads to the most crashes and poses its own safety risks and hazards. 

Remember: Take it slow. Drive at speeds that are safe for the road conditions and give yourself extra  travel time. 

Other reminders:

• Leave plenty of space to stop and give extra room to snowplows. 
• If you’re slowing down or stopping and your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply a steady, firm pressure to the brake pedal. Never pump ABS brakes.
• Move over for vehicles with flashing lights on the side of the road. It’s the law and this includes emergency vehicles, tow trucks and vehicles that are stranded or disabled. 
• Don’t forget to clear snow and ice from your vehicle’s windows, hood and lights, including brake lights and directional signals. Also, follow the law and turn on your headlights when it is snowing or sleeting.
•  Avoid using cruise control when roads are wet and icy.
• If you start to skid, remain calm, ease foot off the gas and turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go.

When a snowstorm hits, avoid unnecessary travel. Minnesota's extreme weather can be life threatening if you become stranded while on the road. Keep essential items in your vehicle packed 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
• Pencil and paper to leave a note or keep a diary

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

While waiting for help, 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.

Learn more about how to get ready for winter on our Homeland Security and Emergency Management page.