COEUR d'ALENE — Winter storm season is upon us, and the Kootenai County Office of Emergency Management is offering residents tips to be better prepared for the unexpected and various winter conditions ahead.

In a news release issued Friday by the office, residents are encouraged to have a 72-hour preparedness kit at home and in their vehicles. The kit, according to the release, should include items such as food, water, first aid kit, flashlights and batteries, a battery powered radio, warm clothing including hats, gloves, and boots, and blankets.

The release also reminds folks to be sure to remember those in their family with special needs such as infants and the elderly or disabled. A preparedness kit should also include extra money and medication that your family may need.

"Remember to also provide for your pets and bring them indoors during cold temperatures," the release states. "People and animals run a risk of frost bite, hypothermia, and in extreme cases, death when exposed to prolonged cold temperatures. If you have family, friends, or neighbors who are elderly, disabled, or need your help, include them in your preparedness plans and check in on them regularly."

Developing an alternate source of heating and lighting is also encouraged, and the release recommends safely using wood stoves, propane or kerosene heaters, lanterns or oil lamps.

Although you should be prepared to relocate your family and pets should the situation require it, the release strongly urges residents to not travel unless necessary. Keep your gas tank as full as possible, the release states, and always work off the top half.

"Winter weather can cause various road hazards, making driving dangerous," the release states. "If you need to travel, use caution and drive in a controlled manner."

Stay informed by listening to your radio or television for detailed emergency information. A warming shelter in Post Falls will open on nights when temperatures reach 30 degrees or below. St. Vincent de Paul Warming Shelter, 202 W. Seventh St., Post Falls, hours of operation is 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Transportation is available from Father Bill’s Kitchen, 1317 N. First St., Coeur d’Alene

For more information on winter storms or what to include in your emergency preparedness kit go to http://oem.kcgov.us or www.ready.gov. Call 511 to get information on the most recent road conditions.