Winter is here, and snow is inevitable. To prepare for impending winter snowstorms, here are some tips:

• Use rock salt or environmentally safe similar products to melt ice on walkways and driveways to prevent injury or vehicles getting stuck. Sand is also an option to use for this purpose.

• Purchase snow shovels, heating fuel, warm clothing (i.e. gloves, coats, and blankets).

• Minimize travel to avoid unnecessary accidents that you could be involved in.

• Bring pets inside during hazardous conditions so they can receive warmth and unfrozen water.

As for your vehicle, especially if you plan to travel:

• Update emergency kits within the vehicle.

• Pack extra batteries.

• Always have water on hand.

• Remember to keep food and snacks in case of an emergency situation.

• A first aid kit should be within the vehicle all times of the year.

• Emergency flares can be helpful if driving to a far-out location.

• Having a tow chain or ropes would be useful given a situation where you need to be pulled.

• Chains being placed on your tires can help avoid an emergency situation.

• Keep salt and cat litter within the vehicle in case the car gets stuck.

Your home is the most likely place to get snowed in, so winterize your home by:

• Maintaining a heating supply, in whatever form, including a generator.

• Go to the grocery store before a winter storm. Stock up on water, bread, milk and batteries. Any necessity, including any medical need, should be taken into consideration before it’s too late.

It’s also important to understand certain warnings given by the news such as:

• Winter Advisory Warning means that winter conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous.

• Winter Storm Warning means a winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.

• Blizzard Warning means sustained gusts of winds about 35 miles per hour or greater, and a large amount of falling or blowing snow are expected which creates a reduced visibility to less than a quarter mile.

Stay safe this winter. Drive slowly in dangerous conditions and be prepared for a snowstorm. While the snow is beautiful, it can be deadly.

For more information about the current snow threat, refers to the hyperlink below-

http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/hollywood-md/20636/weather-warnings-1551717/2121553

For more information on how to prepare, visit: http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather