Keep tabs on weather advisories.

• Position: Car Travel

With the arrival of the holidays sometimes comes treacherous winter driving conditions. To keep revelers safe this season, Rand McNally's editors have pulled together some suggestions for safe winter road travel.

First off, understand the differences among various weather reports. The National Weather Service issues several cautions; know what they mean before you hit the road. Winter weather advisories are for conditions that may be hazardous, but should not become life threatening when using caution; winter storm watches mean that severe winter conditions may affect your area and are issued 12-36 hours in advance of major storms; winter storm warnings mean a storm bringing four or more inches of snow or sleet is expected in the next 12 hours, or six or more inches in 24 hours; blizzard warnings mean snow and strong winds will produce blinding snow, deep drifts, and a life-threatening wind chill.

Let someone know your timetable and travel route. This especially is important if you will be driving in areas with little traffic, rural Locations, or large park areas.

Driving slowly and maintaining plenty of room between you and the next car is the easiest way to avoid accidents. We all want to get to Christmas dinner faster, but that extra 30 minutes could save your life. In bad weather, allow for three to 12 times more stopping distance depending on the size of your vehicle.

Stock your vehicle with a shovel, broom, ice scraper, jumper cables, blankets, flashlight, warning devices (flares), sand or kitty litter, and high-calorie nonperishable...