Winter storms have been hitting the country with an outlook for continued blizzard conditions and extreme cold temperatures. Check out our top ten list of winter driving tips to help you stay safe and prepared on the road.

Don’t drive on Empty: keep your gas tank at least half full and your cell phone charged.

Prepare your car for winter: Make sure your battery, tires, lights, wiper blades and other critical parts are ready for winter

Consider winter tires: Winter tires provide added traction in snow and ice. A set of winter tires can be a smart investment.

Know your vehicle: Review your owner’s manual covering antilock brakes, traction control, and four- or all-wheel-drive to make sure you are comfortable with their operation.

Stock your car: Snow brush, ice scraper, a snow shovel and abrasive material such as sand or cat litter. Jumper cables, a flashlight and emergency flares can help.

Maintain your momentum: If you must travel up a hill in snowy conditions, it’s important to leave enough room in front of you and maintain your momentum while traveling up hill.

Changing lanes: Look for patches of snow covered pavement, these areas often provide better traction for maneuvers.

In case of a skid: Don’t pump the brakes. Look in the direction you want the car to go and steer smoothly in that direction.

If the vehicle gets stuck: Gently rock the vehicle free. Turn the steering wheel left and right. Turn off any traction system. Gently shift back and forth between reverse and a low forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible.

If the vehicle is stranded: Call for assistance.