Winter driving

Though Southeast Missouri has been relatively unscathed so far this winter, it's important we all take extra precautions when on the roadways this time of year.

Daytime rains can make for slick roads when temperatures drop. And based on previous winters, the area will see snow, ice or some combination of wintry precipitation this season.

Here are a few tips to prepare for winter driving:

* Winterize your car. Checking your car's tire pressure and tread condition and making sure antifreeze and other fluids are filled at proper levels is a good starting point.

* Keep a small emergency kit in the car.

* When driving, slow down in bad weather and allow plenty of room to stop.

* To avoid skidding, brake gently.

* Turn on your lights.

* When facing ice, do not use cruise control or overdrive.

* Take extra precaution when driving on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads. These areas freeze first -- even when temperatures are above freezing.

* Do not pass snow plows and sanding trucks.

* Do not drink and drive. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, impaired driving contributes to almost 30 percent of all Missouri traffic fatalities.

* To find more information on road conditions in Missouri, go to www.modot.org or call the toll-free, 24-hour customer service center at 1-888-275-6636. You can also get more information from MoDOT through Facebook and Twitter.

To see the latest weather statements and school closings in our area, check semissourian.com.

Drive safely.