Illinois state officials are urging motorists to gear up for winter.

The "Winter Weather — Get it Together" campaign is backed by the Illinois Department of Transportation, state Police and the Tollway.

The message is wear a seat belt, slow down, and putting down the hand-held device while driving.

Officials suggest avoiding cruise control in snow and ice, giving snowplows a wide berth, and using extra caution on potentially icy intersections, ramps, and bridges.

Always carry an emergency car-care kit with jumper cables, flares, blankets and non-perishable food.

And motorists should move over for stopped emergency vehicles, carry a cellphone and charger, and best advice of all — stay home in bad weather unless absolutely necessary.

More From KHMO-AM 1070, News-Talk-Sports