KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- The snow may have stopped falling, but dangerous driving conditions persist in the Tri-States.

There are certain precautions you can take to make winter driving safer.

Missouri Department of Transportation tells KTVO's Justin Andrews you should winterize car and always have fresh antifreeze, a good battery, and oil to withstand the rigors of these snowy conditions. MoDOT recommends you follow these winter driving tips.

Before the Trip:

- Winterize your car with fresh antifreeze, a good battery, a properly operating exhaust system and oil that will withstand the rigors of cold weather.

- If possible, avoid driving until the roads are safe and passable. You don't want to slide off the road, and we don't want to plow around disabled vehicles.

- Do a thorough pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, paying special attention to your tires, brakes, windshield wipers and windshield wiper fluid.

Equip your vehicle with:

- A flashlight with extra batteries

- A first-aid kit

- Necessary medications

- Blankets and/or sleeping bags

- Extra mittens or gloves, socks, a warm cap and rain gear

- A small sack of sand to use for traction under your wheels

- A small shovel

- Booster cables

- Small tools - pliers, wrench, screwdriver

- A brightly colored cloth to use as a flag

- Nonperishable foods

- Bottled water

During the Trip:

- Obey speed limits; don't speed.

- Use common sense, and adjust your speed and following distance to suit driving conditions .

- Give snowplows plenty of room, and don't pass them.

- Always wear your seat belt.

- Remember that driving is most dangerous when temperatures are near 32 degrees.

- Watch for other vehicles having problems with road conditions.

- Keep mirrors, windows and lights clean; keep your lights on.

- Don't pass other vehicles on or near bridges.

- Keep your fuel tank at least half full.

- If you don't feel comfortable driving, pull off of the highway and park at the first safe place.

If You're Trapped in Your Car:

- Stay in the vehicle. Don't leave to search for help. It's easy to become disoriented and lost in blowing and drifting snow.

- Display a trouble sign. Hang a brightly colored cloth on the antenna.

- Run the engine for about 10 minutes each hour. Run the heater and turn on the dome light only when the vehicle is running.

- Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, and open a window slightly for ventilation.

- Clap hands and move your arms and legs occasionally. Don't stay in one position for too long.

- If more than one person is in the car, take turns sleeping.

- Huddle together for warmth.

- Use newspapers, maps and even car mats for added insulation.