MONROE — Wisconsin winters can be hard to deal with at home and on the road. To encourage people to plan ahead for the snow and cold, Governor Scott Walker has declared Nov. 5-9 as Winter Awareness Week in Wisconsin.

Tanna McKeon, Green County Emergency Management Director encourages everyone to have emergency kits.  Kits should include items such as food, water, flashlight and batteries and blankets. In your vehicle, also be sure to include a snow shovel, extra gloves and hats, and kitty litter or sand to help give your wheels traction on icy roads in case you get stuck.  According to the National Weather Service, Wisconsin experiences an average of three to six winter storms during a season. Winter driving can be extremely hazardous. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, approximately 41 people are killed and almost 3,400 injured in crashes on icy or snow-covered roads in the state.   

Before you travel, check with the 511 Wisconsin for the latest traffic and road conditions. This information, along with live traffic cameras and traffic alerts, can be accessed on the 511 Wisconsin system, which includes a free mobile app, @511WI on Twitter, or the mobile-friendly site www.511wi.gov.

Follow Green County Emergency Management on Facebook and many helpful tips and information can also be found at greencountyem.com.