With colder weather finally making its way into the area and the holiday season getting into full swing, it’s important to make sure that people are prepared in case of emergencies.

Adair and Guthrie County Emergency Management Coordinator Bob Kempf says that with many people traveling or just going back and forth to work in the winter, being prepared for anything that may happen while driving is essential. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio that while preparing your vehicle is the place to start, it’s also important to make sure your supplies in case of an emergency are adequate as well.

“The things that are in our preparedness kit that we had for winter travel seem to get taken out and placed elsewhere, so taking time to make sure that you’ve got a couple of extra blankets or a sleeping bag in your vehicle, some extra dry clothing like socks, mittens, hats, things of that nature. Also making sure, being as you can get stranded for a longer amount of time, making sure that you’ve got some things to eat, some high energy type foods.”

Kempf adds that having flares or cloth that is brightly colored is also a good idea, that way if you end up in the ditch, or broke down on the side of the road, there is something with high visibility that you can use to signal for help. He also mentions that having a shovel and kitty litter are recommended, that way you can dig yourself out if need be, and the litter adds traction to slick surfaces.