Winter driving can be hazardous and scary, especially in northern regions that get a lot of snow and ice.
Additional preparations can help make a trip safer, or help motorists deal with an emergency:
Check battery, tire tread, and windshield wipers
Keep your windows clear, put no-freeze fluid in the washer reservoir, and check your antifreeze
Ensure that the van has a flashlight, jumper cables, kitty litter, shovel, snow brush/ice scraper, and flares
Stomp on antilock brakes, pump non-antilock brakes
Stopping distances are longer on water-covered ice and ice
Steer into a skid