MINNEAPOLIS — Officials continue to remind Minnesotans to stay off the roads over the next few days if possible.
"We don't want to meet people out there in the ditch so, if you can wait, plan ahead. That's what we ask people to do," said Lieutenant Gordon Shank with the Minnesota State Patrol.
If you do drive and end up off the road and in the ditch, Shank said there are smart steps to take.
"Some people do call their own roadside assistance and have a tow company pull their vehicle out," Shank said. "If you're in an area where you're feeling uncomfortable -- let's say you're on a curve and in the ditch -- there's other people that could end up in that ditch. So, we ask people make sure you stay in your vehicle. If you have to exit to clear out your tailpipe, that's what we do ask to do quickly, but get back in your vehicle. The safest spot is in your vehicle buckled in. Throw your hazards on," Shank said.
He explained it's best to stay buckled in and call 911. If your vehicle is blocking traffic, move it to a safe spot if possible.
"We can still investigate a crash, even if it's moved from the exact location the crash happened," Shank said.
And before you drive, make sure you've packed your winter emergency survival kit.
Homeland Security and Emergency Management staff recommend packing the following items: boots, coat, hat, gloves, blanket, booster cables, flares, shovel, ice scraper, sand, bandana, pen/pencil, paper, flashlight, and batteries.
"Look at 511; see what your road conditions are," said Deputy Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Kevin Reed. "Fill up before you go, so if you get stuck, you at least have enough gas to keep warm for a little while."
Reed shared another reminder to be cautious on the roads and prepare for winter driving.
"We don't drive in what's potentially going to be here on Friday all the time," Reed said.
Watch more local news:
Watch the latest local news from the Twin Cities in our YouTube playlist: