With snow predicted for southwest Missouri, NOW is the time to get your vehicle ready for the upcoming winter weather.

Top off your gas tank. A full tank will not only help with more added weight for traction, but if you should get stuck in the snow you will be able to stay in your vehicle and run the heater for warmth for several hours.

Pack a winter safety kit.  Include extra gloves, coat, blanket, kitty litter for traction, a shovel, jumper cables, and a phone charger.

Also add protein bars, bottled water and de-icer plus extra scrapers and snow brushes.

Monitor weather and traffic reports.