Whether you’ve lived in Wisconsin all your life or just for a few days, it doesn't hurt to get a refresher on how to stay safe at home and on the road in the winter.

The first few times snow or ice covers the roads, use extra caution while you’re driving.

"We say this every year, but it's always that first snowfall of the season that causes some problems," says Meteorologist Chad Franzen.

When the snow comes down, slow down.

Leave extra space between you and the car ahead, and when you're behind a snowplow, Wausau Public Works recommends that you stay back 100 feet.

Know the latest weather forecast and road conditions before you venture out.

You can get road conditions by calling 1-800-ROADWIS, or by clicking on “Winter Road Conditions” in the left column of this Web page.

Also, winterize your car so it's less likely to leave you stranded.

When you're at home, beware of overexertion.

Since the cold already stresses your heart, extra physical activity, like shoveling or pushing a car could bring on a heart attack or worsen other medical conditions you may have, so take it easy.

Prepare a disaster supply kit for your home in case of a loss of power, heat, or telephone service.

In your kit, you should include the following items, most of which are recommended by the National Weather Service:

Flashlight and extra batteries
Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and commercial
radio
Extra food and water. Preferably, high energy food that
doesn’t require cooking.
First-aid supplies
Extra supplies of medication, if needed
Emergency heating source, such as a fireplace or space
heater; and be sure you have proper ventilation

Remember to give your furry friends a hand, too.
"Any animals kept outside during the winter need to have a windbreak or shelter from the wind, and a constant and ready fresh supply of water," says Breunling.
Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate a pet's paws and harm the pet further when it licks its paws; so wipe its paws and stomach off after it's been walking in the ice and snow, and keep de-icing chemicals and antifreeze away from your animals.
Watch our 24/7 Weather channel through Tuesday 11/20 to learn the differences between winter weather watches, warnings, and advisories.
The 24/7 Weather channel is digital channel 7-3 or Charter Digital Cable channel 2-4-7.