State police suggest motorists take extra precautions to be prepared for winter driving hazards, which can include snow, ice, cold temperatures, and limited visibility.

Troopers suggest everyone keep on eye on their antifreeze, windshield wipers and non-freezing windshield wash, headlights and tail lamps, heater and defroster, all hoses and belts, tires, battery and alternator, engine oil, jack, lug wrench, and spare tire and consider having an engine tuned up and brakes and exhaust checked.

They suggest people keep in their car a blanket or sleeping bag, flashlight, warm gloves and hand warmers, flares, first aid kit, hat or knit cap, insulated foot wear, shovel, bag of salt, tow rope and an ice scraper and snow brush

There are still some roadways in New York State, where the cell phone coverage is spotty, at best. In some areas where there is poor cell service, such as Interstate 87, New York state provides emergency call boxes. The call boxes are located approximately two miles apart, both north and southbound, from Warren County north to Canada. In the event one became stranded on the roadway without cell service, the following items could be instrumental to survival, according to troopers.

“Prior to departing for a road trip in the winter, you should carefully plan your trip. Check the weather forecast for the different points along your route. Leave a travel plan with a responsible person, advising them of your destination, intended route, and estimated time of arrival,” Maj. Charles Guess said in a prepared statement. “While on your route, check-in with this person periodically to advise him or her of your location.”

Troopers suggest when beginning a trip, leave early, thus allowing plenty of time to reach your destination. Start a vehicle and allow it to warm up for a few moments. Clear the snow and ice off from the entire vehicle and ensure the vehicle’s windshield is clear of frost, troopers said.

Troopers say people shouldn’t start to drive if only a small area of the windshield is clear.