A winter storm system is expected to dump up to a foot of snow on the region by Tuesday afternoon. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways (DoTH) is monitoring conditions and ready to deploy all resources necessary to keep the 1,500 lane miles the County maintains safe for drivers.

DoTH advises drivers to take extra precautions when driving during storms – slow down, stay alert, watch for snow plows and keep your headlights on to remain visible. Also keep an emergency kit in each of your vehicles in case they break down or get stuck during severe weather.

A basic safety kit should include the following items:

• Shovel

• Windshield scraper and small broom

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• Battery powered radio

• Water

• Snack food, including energy bars

• Matches and small candles

• Extra hats, socks and mittens

• First aid kit with pocket knife

• Necessary medications

• Blankets or sleeping bag

• Tow chain or rope

• Road salt, sand or cat litter for traction

• Jumper cables

• Emergency flares and reflectors

• Fluorescent distress flag and whistle to attract attention

• Cell phone adapter to plug into lighter

Kit tips:

• Reverse batteries in flashlights to avoid accidentally switching them on and running down the battery.

• Store items in the passenger compartment in case the trunk is jammed or frozen shut.