The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to stay alert as winter weather creates hazardous road conditions across the state.

Last winter, more than 15,600 crashes occurred on snow- and ice-covered roads in Ohio, resulting in 17 deaths. Officials say many of those crashes were preventable.

Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather. Authorities also recommend keeping a winter safety kit in your vehicle, including a shovel, jumper cables, blankets, water, and a charged phone.

For real-time road conditions: ohgo.com.