Emergency essentials to keep in your home and car during winter storms

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Another round of winter weather is on the way to central North Carolina. Click here for the most up-to-date forecast.

If you can, please stay home, stay warm, stay safe. But some people will have to do out into the elements.

For those of you who do have to drive, AAA offered up some helpful tips on things to do so you're prepared ahead of the storm.

• Check your car battery in case you get stuck somewhere
• Fill your gas tank
• Check your tires to make sure they are filled to an appropriate level and have good tread

AAA also recommends keeping an emergency kit in the car with a full water bottle, snacks, an extra layer of warm clothing and a blanket to keep you warm.

It might be a good idea to wash your car before (and after) the storm.

In addition, it might be a good idea to wash your car before (and after) the storm.

Washing your car--paying special attention to cleaning the wheels, undercarriage and front end--and applying a coat of wax before the winter storm is a good way to protect your car against salt and brine buildup.

That buildup can cause rust or other corrosive problems.

You should also wash your car after the storm, to be sure to clean off salt and bring buildup.

WATCH: How to drive on snow, ice and get out of a skid

First Alert Mode: Here are some tips for driving on ice.

Here's a checklist of some things you should make sure you have in stock in your home:

• Necessary medications
• Flashlights, batteries, blankets
• Fully charged phones, tablets, laptops
• Fuel for cars, generators, chainsaws and other power equipment