The first snow of the season is expected for Thursday, and first snows can be a problem for drivers.
With that, the Ingham County Road Department isn't taking any shortcuts.
"Well, certainly we want folks to get where they're going without any problems and to get there safely. That's our goal," Bill Conklin of the road department said.
With several tons of salt, the Ingham County Road Department will be patrolling the roads, while most people are still sleeping.
"We're going to have staff out about four in the morning to be checking on conditions. More heavily traveled intersections, bridge decks, to see if anything is tightening down," Conklin added.
The salt trucks are ready to go and will head out as needed. Michigan State Police say they are also ready because they know winter weather means more crashes.
"Its just people going too fast for conditions. Vehicles handling capabilities are severely diminished because of inclement weather. The driver is then responsible for operating their vehicles at a safe enough speed to be able to drive," Lt. Darren Green said.
State police say leave earlier, drive slow, and leave more space between cars when on the road.
"Its paramount. Not only are you putting yourself in danger and the people that are driving inside your vehicle, but if you spin out because you're going too fast for conditions, you could cause a huge pile-up behind you," Lt. Green added.
State police say you should also include an emergency kit in your car, in case you do get stranded. Things you should include in your kit are:
- Extra hats, gloves, scarves
- Blankets
- Shovel/scraper
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Emergency flares
- First-aid kit
- Jumper cables
Snow is expected to hit overnight and into tomorrow morning.
