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Flashback: Last year’s crippling winter storm from Dec. 21 to 26 should serve as a reminder to motorists how harsh conditions can be.

The historic storm – which affected areas of Canada and the U.S. – brought blizzards, high winds, snowfall, record cold and zero-visibility just prior to Christmas. It caused extensive vehicle pileups and road closures, particularly in areas affected by blizzards. The storm and related cold wave killed at least 100 people.

Drivers need to be prepared for not only challenging conditions but also having the right things on hand to deal with emergencies. It often takes time to readjust to wintry weather.

Here’s a refresher on some of the difficult road conditions you may face and what they can mean:

• Blizzards: The most dangerous of winter storms, combining falling, blowing and drifting snow, winds of at least 40 km/h, visibility less than one kilometre and temperatures below -10C. They can last from a few hours to several days.
• Heavy snowfall: These are snowfalls of at least 10 centimetres in 12 hours, or at least 15 centimetres in 24 hours; accumulation may be lower in temperate climates.
• Freezing rain or drizzle: This can lead to ice storms, with ice covering roads, trees, power lines, and more.
• Cold snap: When temperatures fall rapidly over a short period of time, causing very icy conditions.
• Winds: They create the conditions associated with blizzards, and cause blowing and drifting snow, reducing visibility and causing wind chill.
• Black ice: A thin layer of ice on the road that can be difficult to see or can make the road look black and shiny. The road freezes more quickly in shaded areas, on bridges and on overpasses when it is cold. These areas remain frozen long after the sun has risen.
• Slush: Wet snow can make for slushy roads. Heavy slush can build up in the wheel wells of the vehicle and can affect your ability to steer. Large trucks and buses can blow slush and snow onto your windshield, leading to a sudden loss of visibility.

Prepare an emergency car kit

A winter emergency car kit could help save your life. We’ve seen television coverage of massive storms stranding hundreds of motorists on highways for 24 hours of more. Would you be prepared? If you have to think about it, you’re probably not.

You can make your own emergency kit or purchase one from retailers. Get Prepared Canada recommends your emergency kit should contain the following:

• Food that won't spoil, such as energy bars
• Water — plastic bottles that won't break if the water freezes (replace them every six months)
• Blanket
• Extra clothing, shoes or boots
• First aid kit with seatbelt cutter
• Small shovel, scraper and snowbrush
• Candle in a deep can and matches
• Wind‑up flashlight
• Whistle
• Roadmaps

Other safety items to keep in your trunk include:

• Sand, salt or cat litter (non-clumping)
• Antifreeze and winter-grade windshield washer fluid
• De-icer
• Tow rope
• Jumper cables
• Fire extinguisher
• Warning light or road flares
• Cell phone charger

Stuck in the snow? Follow these tips:

• Don't go out in the cold. Stay calm and in your car. You will avoid getting lost and your car is a safe shelter. Your car offers the best protection from the weather and from collisions with other vehicles.
• Call 911, if possible.
• Don't tire yourself out. Shovelling in intense cold can be deadly.
• Let in fresh air by opening a window on the side sheltered from the wind.
• Keep the engine off as much as possible. Be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning and make sure the exhaust pipe is not obstructed by snow.
• If possible, use a candle placed inside a deep can instead of the car heater to warm up.
• Use warning lights or set up road flares to make your vehicle visible.
• Turn on the ceiling light; leaving your headlights or hazard lights on for too long will drain the battery.
• Conserve your cell phone battery by using it when only necessary.
• Move your hands, feet and arms to maintain circulation. Stay awake.
• Keep an eye out for other cars and emergency responders. Try to keep clothing dry since wet clothing can lead to a dangerous loss of body heat.

The bottom line is drivers need to remember winter travel means being ready for anything. Slow down and factoring in extra travel time. Keep your gas tank full, which helps reduce moisture in the fuel system, and always carry an emergency kit.

Should you get in an accident contact police and your insurance broker immediately for assistance.