How to stay warm and drive safely in winter weather - WLOX.com - The News for South Mississippi

(RNN) - People experiencing the wintry weather, especially those in the South, are seeing the downside of driving on icy, wet roads.

Road closures, crashes and business and school cancellations have resulted from a mix of freezing rain and sleet falling as far south as the Gulf Coast.

But if conditions allow you to reach a store or gas station to stock up on things you may need to ride out the storm, it's best to do so before it's too late.

AAA suggests keeping vehicles' gas tanks at least half full during the winter, not so much in the event of an evacuation, but because it better protects gas lines from freezing up.

The travel company also suggests on its consumer website, among other things, accelerating and decelerating slowly while driving; making sure tires are properly inflated to prevent slippage; never using cruise control on wet or icy roads; and never warming up a car in an enclosed space such as a garage.

FEMA provides a checklist of items to have in your car and home in the event of severe winter weather.

All households should have a weather radio and emergency supply kits that include non-perishable food, water, blankets, batteries and candles.

It is best to leave faucets dripping overnight and open cabinet doors to prevent pipes from freezing.

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