(NUI) - The colder months have certainly arrived! Just step outside and you'll feel that invigorating chill.

As you stock your home with extra logs for the fire and your kitchen with oversized containers of hot cocoa mix, take a moment to stock your car with a few items necessary for any winter emergency that may arise.

A few simple items can save the day if you get stalled or have an accident, so remember to keep these basics in your car: a warm blanket; candles and matches; jumper cables; a small shovel; a bag of salt or cat litter for traction; a windshield scraping device; a flashlight with fresh batteries; drinking water; and snacks.

Just as you place your flip flops in the back of your closet and pull out your favorite pair of boots, your vehicle also needs proper winter outfitting. It is important to consider the security that a dedicated ice and snow tire can provide for your vehicle during the winter months.

"One of the most important factors in starting, steering or stopping on ice and snowy roads is your tires," said Mark Cox, Bridgestone Winter Driving School director and Pro Race Driver. "It makes no difference if you have a front-wheel, four-wheel or rear-wheel drive, your vehicle will perform better in most winter driving conditions if it is equipped with purpose-built snow tires."

So take a little advice from an expert and begin your search for a reliable winter tire. Cox recommends the Bridgestone Blizzak product line. With more than 90 sizes currently available in the United States, the Bridgestone Blizzak family of ice and snow tires will fit most of today's popular vehicles.

When the snow starts flying, you'll be able to get out and enjoy the winter scenery knowing you're prepared to navigate safely on those wintry roads.

For more information on winter driving, visit the Chill Zone at www.bridgestonetire.com/winter driving/. To hone your driving skills, visit www.winterdrive.com or schedule a trip to the Bridgestone Winter Driving School in Steamboat Springs, Colo.