FRANKFORT — The weather forecast for the next few days here in Southeast Kentucky is calling for various amount of snow.

The state police have a few tips for motorists for driving in ice or snow-covered roads.

Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rodney Brewer stated, “ Winter provides new challenges and responsibilities to the public and the Kentucky State Police. We ask that drivers be prepared to meet the challenges of the upcoming winter season in Kentucky. Plan ahead, make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained, drive defensively and be sure the vehicle is properly maintained to handle the effects of cold temperatures”.

Driving on ice or snow or both, means the driver has to be extra careful and drive cautiously. Braking on snow-covered roads take certain skills to keep from sliding.

“Know what kind of brakes your vehicle has and how to use them properly. In general, if you have anti-lock brakes, apply firm pressure, if you have non anti-lock brakes, pump the brakes gently,” stated Highway Safety Branch Commander, Captain Tim Lucas.

“If you find yourself in a skid, stay calm and ease your foot off the gas while carefully steering in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go. This procedure, known as ‘steering into the skid,’ will bring the back end of your vehicle in line with the front,” Lucas added.

He offered several tips for safe driving in the winter.

Be cautious about travel

Listen for radio or television reports of travel advisories issued by the National Weather Service.

Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads if at all possible.

If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.

Check and restock the winter emergency supplies in your car before you leave.

Never pour water on your windshield to remove ice or snow; shattering may occur.

Never rely on your car to provide sufficient heat; the car may break down.

Always dress warmly.

Always carry clothing appropriate for winter conditions.

There are several things you need to remember if you get stranded. Stay in your vehicle as this is often the safest choice, especially if winter storms have created poor visibility or if roadways are ice-covered. If you do get stranded, stay inside your vehicle. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna of your vehicle as a signal to rescuers. If you need something from the trunk area move it to the passenger compartment. Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing, blankets or newspapers. Be careful when running your vehicle’s engine. Run it and the heater for about 10 minutes an hour and slightly open one window to allow fresh air to get inside. Keep moving your arms and legs, including your head to improve your circulation and it will also keep you warmer. Make sure your exhaust pipe is not block as it will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Don’t eat un-melted snow as it will lower your body temperature.

To help, when you are stranded, be sure to include a number of items in your vehicle.

Inside your vehicle store this items:

Cell phone and charger

Blankets

First-aid kit

A can and waterproof matches (to melt snow for water)

Windshield scraper

Booster cables

Road maps

Compass

Tool kit

Paper towels

Bag of sand or cat litter (to pour on ice or snow for added traction)

Tire chains (in areas with heavy snow)

Collapsible shovel

High-calorie canned or dried foods and a can opener

Flashlight and extra batteries

Canned compressed air with sealant (for emergency tire repair)

Brightly colored cloth

With your cell phone call Kentucky State Police for help at 1-800-222-5555 and give your location. A personal phone book will also be helpful.

C.J. Harte is a Correspondent for the Daily News. He can be reached via e-mail at charte@middlesborodailynews.com.