As we prepare for extremely dangerous cold temperatures over the next few days, Illinois State Police are asking people to stay off the roads unless it is completely necessary. Here are some safety tips to remember if something does happen while on the road.

• If you get stranded DO NOT WALK AWAY FROM YOUR VEHICLE!!!!! You will be leaving your best shelter and easiest thing for emergency personnel to find. These temps are going to drop so low they will cause injury within less than five minutes. Call 911, and keep track of your location to help rescue get to you sooner.
• FYI: Even if you don’t have service, a disconnected cell phone (charged) will still call 9-1-1.
• Allow extra time to get to your destination.
• Avoid unnecessary lane changes, reduce your speed, and increase your following distance on snowy or ice covered roadways.
• Watch out for black ice – roads that appear clear may be treacherous. Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, and bridges, all are prone to black ice.
• Dress warmly for the weather. Dress in layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in anticipation of unexpected winter weather emergencies.
• Make sure someone is aware of your travel plans.  If traveling a long distance, let someone know your route and estimated departure and arrival time.
• Make sure your cell phone is fully charged.  Also, be sure to keep a cell phone charger with you in your vehicle.
• Always carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first aid kit.
• If you do get stranded, make sure snow is not blocking your exhaust.

Also, according to my mother, always pack multiple blankets, snow suits, extra hats, scarves, gloves, boots, matches or lighter, scraper, dry snacks, jug of water, big snow shovel, sand, jumper cables, and FULL tank of gas in the winter time!