As cold weather sets in and we think about traveling home for the holidays, there are some important steps we can take to ensure safe travel back and forth.  It may not be snowing now, but Midwest weather is always surprising! 

If you are driving, make sure your car is winter-ready.  Check the fluid levels (especially the anti-freeze) and tire pressure.  Make sure your wipers are in good condition. 

Also, have an emergency roadside kit. Autorized.com provides this list that will give you a great start to your own kit!

• A cell phone – for calling in case of emergency
• A portable jump starter – in case of a dead battery, you won’t be stranded alone in the cold
• A flashlight and extra batteries
• Emergency flares – so other motorists can see your vehicle
• Sand bags – highly recommended for vehicles with rear-wheel drive
• A tire inflator and sealer
• Warm clothes or blankets
• Snacks and bottled water
• Extra de-icer washer fluid and a spray de-icer
• Ice scraper with a snow brush
• Tire traction product
• Shovel