Winter has returned to Wisconsin

While yesterday's snowfall wasn't as significant as it could have been, it's still a reminder that this is the season for heavy snowfalls that can bring everything to a standstill. Have your vehicles and home ready for winter storms. Here are a few simple things you can do:

Have an emergency winter weather survival kit in your vehicle. Your kit should include water, snack food such as energy bars or raisins, first aid kit and booster cables. If you have a cell phone make sure you have a power adapter you can plug into the lighter. You can find more tip kits at http://readywisconsin.wi.gov.
When traveling, check the roads and take your time. Call 511 or go to 511wi.gov for the latest road conditions across Wisconsin. You can also go to readywisconsin.wi.gov/511/default.asp for a regional travel map which covers North and South Dakota, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri and Wisconsin. Make sure you plan extra time if you travel. Roads may become icy and snow packed. Also, keep at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle in case of an emergency and let friends and family know where you are traveling to and when you should arrive.

Get supplies for your home. Make sure your home emergency kit is stocked with food that can be stored and eaten without electricity, in case there is a power outage. Also, make sure you have extra water, flashlights with extra batteries and medications. For a complete list of kit items, log on to readywisconsin.wi.gov/kit/GetKit.asp.

Stay informed. ReadyWisconsin will keep you posted on any emergencies that occur during storms. Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/readywisconsin) or Twitter (twitter.com/readywisconsin) for updates.