INDIANA — This week is Winter Weather Preparedness Week in Indiana. How should you drive when snow occurs? What should you do if stranded by a blizzard or ice storm? Are you weather ready?

When winter storm warnings or winter weather advisories are issued consider changing your plans before you leave. If you travel, provide others your planned travel route and arrival time and a phone number to be reached at.

The Indiana State Police remind drivers to always obey all posted signs. Adjust vehicle speed according to weather, road and traffic conditions. Allow plenty of space between vehicles for extra stopping distance.

The Indiana Department of Transportation reminds motorist to keep a safe distance behind snow plow operators. If salt is hitting your vehicle, you are following too close. Avoid passing snow plows on two lane roads. Also keep in mind bridges and overpasses often become icy first. Snow and blowing snow can cause sudden restrictions in visibility. Remember ice and snow, keep it slow.

If you are stranded in a snow or ice storm, stay with your vehicle. It provides dry shelter and protection from the cold and wind. You are also more likely to be found with your vehicle than if you leave it to seek shelter. walking even a short distance in blinding snowstorm may quickly get you lost. Damp clothes and bitter wind chills quickly lead to frostbite or hypothermia.

While stranded, run the motor and heater just enough to warm the vehicle. Keep the exhaust pipe snow free and a window open slightly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Make your vehicle more visible by attaching a bright colored cloth on the antenna. At night, turn the dome light on.

On Wednesday, the NWS will look at winter weather safety considerations for schools.

Visit getprepared.in.gov for more information about winter safety.