The winter weather season is in full effect.

Here are a few inclement weather driving tips courtesy of Illinois State Police District 8:

-Limit cruise control use to dry surfaces

-If traction is lost, gradually slow down but do not slam on the breaks

-Use caution when driving on bridges & ramps (because frost forms on these surfaces first)

-Be careful when approaching shaded areas (these are the last places for ice & snow to melt)

If you haven't assembled a winter road kit, the time to assemble should be right now!

Here are the following items that you should keep in your vehicle:

-Tools: including jack, lug wrench, ice scraper, flashlight (with new batteries), first aid kit, and jumper cables

-Nourishment: including bottled water and nonperishable food

-Protection: including extra warm clothes, boots, hats, gloves, and blanket/sleeping bags

Communication: including a spare cellphone (with car charger) and a brightly colored cloth or flag to tie to an antenna when stranded

Have you checked on your windshield wipers, tires, gas, etc.? Here are a few vehicle checkpoints that you should not ignore for this winter season:

-Check tread on tires

-Check windshield wipers for cracks of wear

-Fill windshield fluid reservoir

-Keep gas tank at least half full; this prevents fuel line from freezing. Stranded drivers can run engine to maintain heat

-Check headlamps

If you are planning a trip in-state, here is some information to help just in case you happen to travel:

-Illinois Department Of Transportation (IDOT) winter road condition hotline-1-800-452-4368

-Illinois Toll Roads- 1-800-865-5394

- Online- www.gettingaroundillinois.com