It's here - winter.

OK, maybe not here, but coming quickly. The first snow has fallen, and soon it will start piling on the roads.

And as motorists prepare their vehicles with blankets, food and snow tires, they should also prepare for harsh driving conditions.

Jeff Goetz, public information officer with the Wyoming Department of Transportation District 2 (the Casper District), said motorists should be aware that with cold, wind and snow come changing driving conditions.

Despite winter challenges, Goetz said, "traveling can still be done safely if you're prepared and take a little extra time."

To keep motorists safe, WYDOT suggests some safe winter driving tips:

* Check the Wyoming road report by dialing 5-1-1 on your land or cell phone (within Wyoming); by calling 888-WYO-ROAD (if outside Wyoming), or on the Web at {M3www.wyoroad.info. In certain areas, you can also turn to 1610 AM for travel information.

The road report provides general information on road conditions, but not an up-to-the-minute report. Your judgment and responsibility as the vehicle operator will ensure your winter highway travels are safe.

* Buckle up and slow down. Drive for the conditions and remember, just because a road looks recently plowed, doesn't mean it's not still slick. Give yourself extra room to stop and make turns when approaching intersections. Take extra time to get where you're going.

* Always keep your gas tank at least half full; more weight equals better traction. If you get stuck, do not leave your car. Run the engine periodically to keep warm and open a window slightly to ensure you have fresh air to breathe. Check the area around the vehicle's tailpipe to ensure it is clear of snow build-up which could block the pipe and introduce deadly exhaust fumes into the vehicle.

* Remember that four-wheel-drive on slick roads does not mean four-wheel stop. A four-wheel-drive vehicle will not stop any better on sheer ice than a two-wheel-drive vehicle. When stopping and steering, small movements help you maintain control - slamming on the brakes and making big steering inputs is practically a guarantee that you slide off the highway.

* Never pass a snowplow unless you are absolutely certain of what is next to or ahead of the snowplow. In poor visibility or even white-out conditions, don't drive faster than you can see ahead. Plows turn and exit the road frequently. Give them plenty of room. Stay back at least 15 car lengths (200 feet). Snowplows can throw up a cloud of snow that can reduce your visibility to zero in less time than you can react. Never drive into a snow cloud, as it could conceal a snowplow.

* Be sure your cell phone is fully charged. Carry extra clothing, blankets, a flashlight, a shovel, water and food, matches, water, a candle, jumper cables and a tow strap.

* Don't travel if your vehicle isn't in good mechanical condition. Tires, brakes, battery, turn signals and all other lights should be fully functional. The last place you want to have a breakdown is on a snowy highway.

For more WYDOT winter driving tips, visit {M3www.dot.state.wy.us and follow the links to Winter Wheeling in Wyoming.