Keep your car in shape:

• Have the engine tuned
• Check headlamps
• tire tread
• brakes
• windshield washer fluid
• heater and other safety equipment
• Keep the fuel tank filled, topping it off before reaching half a tank.
• Carry a flashlight, flares, sand, a shovel, cell phone or spare change for a phone call.
• Clear car windows, hood and roof before starting to drive.

Keep windshield wipers and defoggers in good condition. Visibility is not only a good safety idea, it's a state law. A snowbrush, ice scraper and gloves are a wise investment.

Travel on main routes. The most traveled roadways are usually cleared and sanded first. A short cut down a back road might not save any time if the road hasn't been plowed. Also, if help is required, main roads are usually the best patrolled.

Ride together to work -- in a carpool or vanpool. Road-clearing operations will be more successful with fewer vehicles on the road. Plus, riding together saves money and gasoline, reduces auto wear and tear, reduces harmful emissions and is more enjoyable.

Always assume road conditions are worse than they are and allow additional travel time. Drive cautiously and courteously.

Helpful weather Information:

• Tune to a local radio/tv station that provides regular weather bulletins and reports on road conditions.
• Illinois Department of Transportation State Wide Road Conditions can be found at http://www.dot.state.il.us/
• For pre-recorded road condition information, please call 1-800-452-IDOT (4368)