BLANDFORD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) -- With the start of winter comes the inevitable; you’ll have to drive in cold and slippery conditions. While the first snowfall of the winter season didn’t result in any major delays or accidents, it did serve as a good reminder.

According to AAA, about 46% of all bad weather crashes happen in winter, but it’s also a busy time for dead batteries, flat tires and vehicle extractions.

Western Mass News is getting answers on how town departments are preparing, and what you should do to prepare your car.

We spoke with Blandford Highway Superintendent Raymond Hultay who tells us his crews are always prepared for whatever mother nature has in store.

Hultay says, “[Tuesday] morning, we started salting the roads around 4 o’clock. I had the guys come in just to end up doing a pre-treat...You don’t know what type of weather you’re going to end up dealing with. Up here, we’re right on the line. We could end up dealing with ice. We could end up dealing with regular snow and sleet. Conditions change by the minute, honestly, in Blandford.”

Hultay also coordinates with school officials on closures or early dismissals to ensure the safety of families going and leaving school. “We have a group of communication between the superintendent of the school district. We end up, between the highway superintendents, we end up making a plan of either school delays, early dismissals. And also, it’s a good key to have to be able to help each other out if anyone needs any help,” he explains.

As for residents, winter can provide plenty of difficulties, especially for your car. That’s why AAA is reminding drivers before hitting the road to make sure your vehicle is up for the challenge ahead.

Before you drive, check the following areas: (According to AAA)

Most importantly, if there is a bad snowstorm outside, Superintendent Hultay tells us, “If the weather is bad and you don’t have to go out, just stay home. Let us do our job, let us get the roads cleaned up for you, and be safe. It’s a lot safer to stay home.”

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