As milder weather conditions start to fade away and we head into the brunt of winter, Adair and Guthrie County Emergency Management urge that now is the time to get your vehicle prepared for adverse situations.

Emergency Management Coordinator Bob Kempf says it’s always important to check road conditions before heading out on a trip, and to have your vehicle regularly maintained, “With your winter driving is making sure that your vehicle’s in good shape, making sure that your tires are good, you’ve checked your battery, your hoses, your belts, things like that. And also it’s time to make sure that your winter weather kit that you carry with you is up to date with extra clothing, things to drink, so that you can stay hydrated. Maybe some granola bars, things like that so if you do go in the ditch and you have to wait a while you’ve got something to eat.”

Other items in an emergency supply kit include jumper cables, sand or kitty litter for tire traction, a flashlight, and a ribbon to tie to your antennae in case you’re trying to get motorists’ attention while in the ditch. In blowing snow conditions, Kempf advises to stay with your vehicle and to keep a full gas tank during winter.