Driving safely in snow, blinding storms, ice and slush takes preparation and the proper mind-set. That's exactly what dozens of Indiana drivers needed last weekend, while trapped in their cars for almost 12 hours. If you were stranded in a snowstorm, would you know what to do?

What To Do If You're Stranded

• Pull your car over as far off the road as possible to avoid being hit
• Put on any additional clothing to keep warm
• Use phone or radio to call for help
• It is better to stay with the car and run the engine periodically, not continuously
• Conserve your energy; over-exertion by trying to move your vehicle or shoveling too long endangers your health
• Melt snow for drinking water
• Move your arms and legs to improve your circulation and to keep warmer
• Before leaving your vehicle, consider the outside temperature. A person can freeze very quickly, especially if there is wind
• If you are stranded in an area where there is regular traffic, put on your flashers or raise your car's hood to attract help

Preparation For Long Trips: Long distance trips by car or truck can be dangerous during the winter, so here are some suggestions for minimizing the chance of the trip becoming a tragedy:

• Find out about expected weather conditions at locations along your route
• Tune into local stations for information on road conditions
• Give persons on either end of your trip a travel itinerary including planned departure and arrival times and call these persons to let them know of your safe arrival
• Stop frequently for resting and re-fueling
• Travel as much as possible in daylight
• Be familiar with your route, carry recent maps and prepare alternate routes
• Be prepared for travel delays and be willing to pull over on the road or to stop at road shelters to wait out poor driving conditions