Now is a good time to “winterize” your car, the office of Secretary of State Jesse White said.

White’s office said preparing your vehicle before the arrival of winter will keep you safe, save you money and reduce vehicle emissions.

Drivers should keep an emergency kit with jumper cables, a small shovel, an ice scraper and salt or sand for traction in their vehicle, the office said.

Also recommended were items for use if you become stranded. Blankets, high-energy, non-perishable food and a first-aid kit were suggested.

Internally, your vehicle should be serviced to ensure it will get you safely through the winter, Dave Smith of the local Tires Plus, 2430 Sycamore Road, said.

“There’s nothing worse than going out in the morning and your car won’t start,” Smith said.

Smith suggested drivers inspect their tires and antifreeze in their car. Basic service, like a tune-up and an oil change are a good idea, Smith said.

Scottie Briner, also of Tires Plus, said drivers should check their windshield wipers, defrost and heaters.

Briner and Smith said vehicle lights should be checked routinely, and that a check of the vehicle’s electrical system, especially the battery, is important.

“Really, the antifreeze is the best thing to check. It should be good to -30 or more,” Smith said.

He said that otherwise the engine could freeze up. “You don’t want that to happen,” he said.