MONTOURSVILLE, PA (WIVT/WBGH) – Due to the upcoming winter storm, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is urging motorists to stay off the roads.

Weather predictions call for freezing rain, sleet, and snow which could cause icy conditions, especially in north central Pennsylvania.

The DOT says that it is prepared with sufficient amounts of salt and anti-skid on hand, but that doesn’t mean that you should travel.

The storm is expected to begin around 6 p.m, last throughout the night, then taper off on Tuesday.

For those who need to travel, you can check road conditions at 511PA.com.

Also use these tips from the DOT:

• Carry a winter emergency travel kit. (including layers of clothing and blankets)
• Listen to weather and travel advisories, but if you do not have to travel in bad weather don’t.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full.
• Slow down and increase following distance.
• Avoid sudden stops and starts.
• Beware of roads that may look wet, but are actually frozen, often referred to as ‘black ice.’
• Use extra caution on bridges and ramps, where ice can often form without warning.
• Carry a cellphone.
• Do not use cruise control while driving on snow-covered roads.
• State law requires you to turn on your headlights when your wipers are on.
• Use your low beams in particularly bad weather, especially in cases of heavy or blowing snow.
• Remove ice and snow from windows, mirrors, and all vehicle lights before you drive and as often as needed.
• Remove snow and ice from the hood and roof of your vehicle. State law states that if snow or ice from your vehicle strikes a vehicle or a person and causes death or injury, you can be ticketed.
• Do not park or abandon your vehicle on snow emergency routes.
• Do not pass or get between trucks plowing in a plow line (several trucks plowing side by side).
• Make sure someone else knows where you are going and when you expect to arrive in case you run into an emergency and need help, someone will know where to look for you.
• If you do become stranded, it’s better to stay with your vehicle until help arrives. Run the engine every hour or so, but make sure the tailpipe is clear and keep the downwind window cracked open.
• Do not drink and drive, and always wear your seat belt.