NORFOLK, Neb. -- As Nebraskans deal with yet another storm this winter season, one northeast Nebraska fire department wants to make sure drivers stay safe on snowy and icy roads. 

The Norfolk Fire Division is helping drivers learn more about preparing their vehicles for the winter weather.

Lt. Brock Soderberg said that the first winter storm of the season is usually the worst for drivers.

"The first winter storm we get is usually the busiest for car accidents, but most of the time fender benders," he said. "That first snowfall gets quite a few accidents."

Preparedness starts at home.

Soderberg said it is best to make sure there is plenty of time to scrape snow and ice off vehicles and to check what lies ahead before leaving for any destination.

"Check your local road conditions, especially if you're going out of town," he said. "Nebraska 511 gives you road conditions. For preparedness, make sure that you let your car warm up, and get all the snow and ice off your windows. Don't just make a little peephole where you can see out. It's very dangerous. Just clear it all off."

Officials encourage that during bad weather, drivers should do their best to stay home.

But, if anyone has to go somewhere and the roads are icy or filled with snow, Soderberg said the best thing to do is to drive with caution.

"Slow down is the main thing, and give yourself plenty of space between other cars," he said. "When you're coming up to a stop sign, stop lights, always take an extra second. When the light turns green, make sure that intersection is cleared and no one is going to slide through it."

Between Dec. 21 and 22, the Nebraska State Patrol assisted 300 motorists stuck on roads.

Soderberg said drivers should pack a basket of essentials to have in case of a breakdown in cold conditions and told News Channel Nebraska what motorists should have.

"Blankets, warm clothes, nice coat, gloves, a hat, things to keep you warm just in case you get stranded," he said. "Try to always have a cellphone charger in your car and keep your phone charged up."

For more information and tips about driving in winter weather, visit the Norfolk Fire & Rescue and the Region 11 Facebook pages.