We don’t have any snow on the ground yet but the Illinois Department of Transportation and State Police want motorists to be prepared for winter driving conditions.

The state is launching the “winter weather…get it together” campaign. State Police Lieutenant Chris Owen says the first snowfall or icing can get pretty ugly and notes some mistakes drivers make.

Tips for safe winter driving include not using your cruise control in snow and ice and not traveling in bad weather unless absolutely necessary.

Drivers also need to slow down, pay attention and give snow plows plenty of room says IDOT Highway Maintainer Mike Merz.

IDOT also urges motorists to have an emergency kit in their car with jumper cables, flares, a first aid kit and window washer fluid.