According to the Farmers' Almanac, this winter will see an increase in "shivery conditions," where temperatures will average below normal for about three-quarters of the nation and snowfall will be significant. Are you and your family winter ready? With a little planning though, you can protect yourself and your family from the many hazards of winter weather, both on the road and at home. On the Road: To help get you started, here are a few tips from the experts at Ames True Temper (www.amestruetemper.com) regarding what tools and supplies you'll need to stock your car or truck with this winter: * Tip #1: It's a great idea to pack extra blankets, gloves, hats and scarves to help keep warm in the event of a breakdown. * Tip #2: Keep a stocked first aid kit; this way you are prepared for any injuries. * Tip #3: Keep a windshield brush and scraper at all times for brushing off any ice or snow in the morning, after work or as you need it throughout the day. * Tip #4: Store the compact AutoBoss snow shovel from True Temper, which is ideal for digging out snow if your vehicle gets stuck. Because of its compact folding design, it won't take up much space. * Tip #5: Make sure you have salt and sand in your trunk. Both are helpful when a vehicle is having trouble gaining traction or ice needs to be melted. * Tip #6: Keep plenty of food and water in the event you must wait for additional support or relief. Be sure to have enough for all passengers. It's also important to take caution when driving and obey all speed limits and traffic signals. Tune into your local news source to determine the conditions of the roads before departing. In the Home: If you don't have to drive during inclement winter weather, consider remaining home. Here are a few items that the experts at Ames True Temper recommends you keep around the house so that you are prepared for a winter storm: * Tip #1: It's a great idea to lay salt and sand before and after it snows on driveways and walk-ways to prevent slipping and facilitate ice melting. * Tip #2: Make sure flashlights, candles, matches and a battery powered radio are all kept in an easy to reach location so you're prepared in the event of a power outage. * Tip #3: Have a snow removal tool like the True Temper SnoBoss to help clear walkways and driveways. This ergonomic tool will help you accomplish heavy-duty snow removal comfortably and safely. * Tip #4: It's easier to shovel a couple inches of snow from a driveway or sidewalk and repeat a couple of times than waiting for the full accumulation when a deep snow is predicted. * Tip #5: Make sure your pantries are stocked with grocery staples and maybe a few extra treats to help pass the time and prevent cabin fever! With these tips, Ames True Temper hopes you have a safe and fun winter. For more information on snow removal tools, or other Ames True Temper outdoor products, please visit our newly updated website at www.amestruetemper.com, or call our customer service line, 1-800-393-1846.