Snow and freezing rain rarely wait for winter to officially arrive. Temperatures are expected to drop heading into Friday and roads could get slippery. DPW officials from across the region say they're keeping a close eye on the radar. Our Cara Thomas tells us what they're doing to keep the roads safe. 

The first wintry blast of the season could slow down your commute Friday morning. But, DPW crews from across the region say they're prepared to stay ahead of the storm. 

"We've got our materials have all been stock piled. We've been through 95-percent of our equipment has been tested, its been harnessed and ready to go," said Oneida County DPW Commissioner Dennis Davis. 

Officials say the salt sheds are filled, brine tanks are prepared and plows are ready to hit the streets. Crews at the Department of Transportation have already begun spraying preventative coats of brine.

"What the actual brine does, it prevents the snow or ice from bonding to the pavement, which makes it much easier for us to plow away the ice or the snow as it comes down onto the roadway," said Jim Piccola of the NYSDOT.

While these preventative measures will help, transportation officials say it's important for drivers to take the necessary precautions as they head out on the roadways.

"Keep in mind that it will be the first snowfall for my drivers, also, and they have to do the same thing. They have to readjust," said Syracuse DPW Commissioner Pete O'Connor. "So please stay away from the snow plows, give them room to get their job done and everybody be careful, and I'm sure we'll get over this pretty easy."

With winter approaching, officials say it's a good time to get winter tires put on your vehicle.