Stories of families getting lost and stranded on a simple road trip really do exist so take extra precaution before heading out this year with these simple tips:

1) Always have your cell phone on hand, fully charged. Carry charger that can plug into your car.

2) Put together a safety kit for the car and leave it there. The kit should contain: an extra blanket or two, a small shovel, bottled water, extra clothing, extra diapers if you have a baby, baby food, energy bars, snack packs, a flashlight, extra batteries for your flashlight, heat packs in case you have to venture out for help, a map, matches and cables that fit your car's tire size.

3) Pull off to the side of the road during a snow storm or you might get stuck in it.

4) Try to stay on major highways and streets which are plowed more frequently than less-traveled roads.

5) Always keep your distance from other cars if there's snow falling or its already on the ground.