University of Houston Emergency Management is encouraging people to be prepared this winter for whenever freezing temperatures strike the area.

The Texas Department of Public Safety offers the following tips for staying safe:

• Avoid unnecessary travel if possible, and monitor local weather broadcasts.
• Remember that ice forms first on bridges, overpasses and shady areas. If you hit a patch of ice, stay off your brakes and decelerate slowly, holding the steering wheel steady.
• On icy roads, drive slowly, increase distance needed for stopping, and avoid using cruise control.
• Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before any trip - check fluid and antifreeze levels.
• Keep your gas tank full to prevent water condensation in the tank.
• Buckle up everyone in the vehicle - it’s the law.

In addition, here is a list of emergency supplies drivers can keep in their vehicle:

• Blankets/sleeping bags and extra clothing, mittens and hat
• Cell phone, radio, flashlight, extra batteries
• First-aid kit and pocket knife
• High calorie, nonperishable food, bottled water
• Sack of sand or cat litter for de-icing roadway
• Windshield scraper, tool kit, booster cables, tow rope and shovel

For more information on road conditions statewide, check www.drivetexas.org.