Though snow or ice is a rare occurrence in south Mississippi, it does happen. And when it does, it gets ugly in a hurry on our roadways.

We simply don’t have enough practice driving in frozen precipitation to be very good at it. Vehicles careen off highways, get stuck in ditches, hit trees, crash into other vehicles and, in general, create mayhem.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation recognizes that and reminded drivers recently of a few tips for handling winter weather.

Most of the tips are common sense, but it seems common sense is always in short supply when the roads get slick.

MDOT’s tips:

• Buckle up.

•Slow down.

•Allow more space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.

• Brake early and gently to avoid sliding.

• Use your headlights.

• Avoid cruise control.

• Don’t talk on the phone while driving.

• Stay alert.

Hopefully, the snow and ice will stay north of us this winter and these tips won’t be necessary. But commit them to memory just in case.

MDOT also recommends that drivers keep a winter car kit in case of emergencies. That kit should have a windshield scraper, flashlight, jumper cables, first aid kit, blankets, a cellphone charger, water, snacks and emergency reflectors.