Blizzards, poor driving conditions and low temperatures are inevitable for ISU students going to class during the winter.

In an effort to help Iowans brave the winter weather, Gov. Tom Vilsack and the National Weather Service have designated Nov. 6 through Nov. 10 as Winter Weather Week.

To help promote safety, the Story County Emergency Management Agency will distribute “Send Help” signs from Story County libraries and courthouses.

“These signs contain information such as phone listings for road reports, winter terms, emergency contact information and safety tips,” said Lori Morrissey, coordinator for the Story County Emergency Management Agency. “It should be displayed in the front of your car window so that passers-by can go get help.”

The Story County Emergency Agency also is focusing on winter-preparedness kits for vehicles.

“Keeping the survival kit in the trunk is helpful,” Morrissey said. “You should keep blankets, an ice scraper, a flashlight, batteries, non-perishable food items and jumper cables in your car throughout the winter.”

Department of Public Safety Lt. Steve Hasstedt said it is important to be prepared for the unexpected.

He said that during this time of year the number of cars that need a jump start increases dramatically.

“If the weather service says that you shouldn’t travel, it’s probably best that you don’t,” he said.

Hasstedt warned that people should be aware of weather conditions before they go outside and to let someone else know what their travel plans are in case of an accident.

“People should stay by their vehicles and let someone else get help,” he said.

Morrissey said it is also important to keep tabs on senior citizens during the winter.

“Make sure to check on elderly friends or family before and after winter storms,” Morrissey said. “Make sure that they are prepared with enough groceries in case of an extended power outage.”

Although the winter weather is usually not a huge problem, Morrissey said people still need to avoid any risks.

“People are not taking weather seriously,” she said. “If the weather says low visibility, they end up going anyway. We have to change that.”