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During the winter months, drivers in Iowa are urged to take precautions and drive defensively. Some tips would include leaving early so there is no rush and packing blankets, food and water in the vehicle.

With winter weather on its way, drivers need to be aware of their surroundings and take special precautions to stay safe on the roadways.

Despite an unusually warm and dry December, State Climatologist Justin Glisan said that current weather patterns predict slightly above average precipitation throughout the state for the month of January. The average snowfall in Marshalltown, based off of 30 years of data from the National Weather Service, is 5.3 inches each January.

Iowa Department of Transportation Winter Operations Manager Craig Bargrede advises Iowans to stay off of the roads when the conditions are dangerous.

The DOT has more than 900 snow plows at work on Iowa roadways, Bargrede said, but even so, getting roads cleared to normal winter conditions can take time. When road conditions are bad, drivers should slow down and be patient with those around them, including plow operators.

“The traveling public just needs to be patient,” Bargrede said. “Safety is our number one priority.”

Each winter, particularly in the early part of the season, the Marshalltown Police Department sees a spike in accidents, many of which are speed-related.

“Always drive defensively,” said Marshalltown Police Department Chief Michael Tupper, “You’re going to have to slow down.”

People can check road conditions on the DOT’s 511 website, 511ia.org. The website includes a color-coded map of roadway conditions, as well as photos from plow cameras, providing people with a real-time look into road and weather conditions.

When road conditions or weather are dangerous, drivers should consider pushing back plans in order to avoid driving altogether.

“If you don’t have to go out, you should stay home,” Tupper said.

When staying home is not an option, driving slowly and allowing for extra time to get to destinations can save lives on icy winter roads.

“If they do make the decision to travel, we talk about speed,” Bargrede said. “Match your speed to the weather conditions.”

Drivers can also increase their own safety by making sure tires are properly inflated and in good shape. Tupper suggests that everyone travel with blankets, snacks, water, flashlights and jumper cables in case they get stuck anywhere.