If the forecast holds true, the Albert Lea area could see its first measurable snowfall of the season today.

Sometimes the first few snowfalls of the year can be hazardous as people forget they need to slow down and take extra precaution to keep safe.

In case you may have forgotten how to safely drive in the white stuff, here are a few tips from the Minnesota Department of Transportation:

• Slow down to a safe speed for the conditions, and give yourself plenty of travel time.

• Turn on your headlights, and turn off your cruise control.

• Buckle up, and make sure children are properly secured in the correct child restraint.

• Be patient, and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions.

• Avoid unnecessary travel if road conditions are too poor.

• Stay back at least five car lengths from snowplows. Stay alert for snowplows that turn or exit frequently, sometimes with little warning.

• Keep a winter weather survival kit in your car. Each year, hundreds of Minnesotans find themselves stranded on the roadside. Winter weather can kill in mere minutes if an unprepared person is exposed to the elements.

• Rely on www.511mn.org. This system provides road safety information 24 hours per day on traffic congestion, road and weather conditions and other obstacles.

Remember, in a split second, something can change. Be extra alert in snowy and icy weather.