It might not feel like it in the Phoenix area, but winter is coming, folks. And that means rain, snow and ice on roads in many parts of Arizona, which can make driving hazardous for day-trippers and other winter travelers.

With that in mind, the Arizona Department of Transportation and the Arizona Department of Public Safety are reminding everyone to prepare for the busy winter travel season by planning ahead and staying safe on the roads.

For one thing, slow down and avoid sudden acceleration on wet, snowy or icy roads. Leave extra room between your car and the car in front of you. Also keep an eye out for "black ice," which can form on roadways and be difficult to spot, especially at night. Ice tends to form on bridges first.

In case you get stranded, bring extra clothes and gloves, keep your cellphone charged and pack extra drinking water and food, along with any necessary medications. Keep your car's gas tank at least three-quarters full. It's also a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle; stock it with blankets, a flashlight, an ice scraper, a small shovel, a container of sand (for traction) and hazard warning lights or reflectors.

Finally, if you encounter one of ADOT's 200 snowplows, slow down and stay at least four car lengths behind it.

To get the latest information on highway conditions, visit ADOT's Travel Information website, www.az511.gov. And for more tips about driving in winter weather, go to www.azdot.gov/KnowSnow.