Harris: “We are recommending that people winterize their cars.”
 
Spokeswoman Cynthia Harris says that means checking all the systems in your car to make sure they’re working – the heater, defroster, exhaust system and lights.  Then, check your tires and brakes.
 
Harris also recommends filling your gas tank up before you start your trip. 
 
Harris: “That gives you an advantage of shopping around, buying gas at the price that you want, and also not getting stuck somewhere mid-trip without enough gas and getting stranded.” 
 
Finally, Harris says, keep an emergency kit in your car – with a flashlight, blanket and sleeping bag.  And if you have a cell phone, make sure it’s fully charged.