ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — As the end of October nears, temperatures will continue their downward trend for the rest of the year. In doing so, winter weather will soon start to arrive in Western New York, and the last thing you want to be worrying about is not being prepared as winter weather hits. We will discuss the best ways you can prepare for winter weather so this fear does not become reality. Home Winter Preparedness Checklist It has been proven time and time again that the best way to prepare for any sort of extreme weather is to have a plan. Never let a winter storm take you by surprise! If you are expecting to be at home or at work during a winter weather event, you need to be concerned about losing power, heat, and cell phone service. Losing one of these three services could create a life threatening situation. Therefore, make sure you have a backup plan. It doesn't necessarily matter where you are when an extreme weather event occurs; what matters is that you have an emergency kit. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), an emergency kit should include the following: Flashlight Extra batteries Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio Food Water Prescriptions Emergency heat source First-aid supplies Cell phone Tips for Traveling in Winter Weather The best action to take during a winter storm is staying indoors and not travel, unless there's an emergency. If you find yourself on the roads during a winter storms, slow down and allow for extra time to reach your destination. Be sure to let someone know where you are heading and the route you plan to take. If your car happens to get stuck in the storm, stay in your vehicle. If you leave your vehicle, you're putting yourself at risk for potential disorientation due to wind-driven snow and coldness. When running your motor, make sure to open your window a little so fresh air can get in to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Attach a bright cloth to your car door to draw to yourself. Once it stops snowing, raise the hood of your car to indicate to others that you need help. Staying Warm and Dressing Appropriately for Winter Weather Several layers of loose fitting clothing are better than one tight fitting garment. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Do not forget your hat since your body’s greatest heat loss occurs from your head. Wind chill, the combination of cold temperatures and wind, increases the danger of frostbite or hypothermia. Be especially cautious when venturing out onto an ice covered body of water. An ice thickness of at least four inches is recommended to support a person. Click here to learn more about winter weather preparedness.