Travelling on or before New Year's Day for visits with family and friends is a given, but the bitter conditions mean you need to be prepared for the trip, according to the Alberta RCMP.  

Travelling when it's minus 30 or minus 40 with the wind chill can be extremely dangerous, says Constable Mike Hibbs, who says you need to be prepared for any potential situation.

"When you're travelling in this kind of weather, you should always make sure you have a safety kit in your car.  You should also have lots of clothing for everyone in your family, just in case your vehicle does break down."

Hibbs says if you do happen to have vehicle trouble on your trip, that you should stay with your car and not walk to find help.  

"I would stay with the vehicle.  You can leave your vehicle and get trapped in these kinds of cold temperatures.  As you know, the temperatures can take control of your body pretty quickly.  Staying with the vehicle, people can find you more quickly if they have to look for you.  Don't leave the vehicle, especially if the area is unfamiliar to you."

Hibbs also thinks, just like you're to tell someone where you're going when hiking, you should also let someone know your route and the timetable of your trip.

"If you're heading out, give yourself a timeline for arriving at your destination and contact somebody you know who is expecting you to arrive at that time.  Make sure your cell phone is fully charged as well."

Hibbs says it's most important that you have the proper gear in your vehicle so as to not be in serious danger until someone finds you.  "If you do get caught for an hour or two at least you've got gloves, hats, a heavier jacket and blankets in the vehicle."

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