Also, this might be an obvious tip and might not need stating, but make sure all of your equipment is working prior to attempting, well really any, IMC conditions... but especially winter IMC. Do a very thorough preflight.

This would include your Pitot/Static heat, window defrosting/heat, and alternate air source. Also, don't forget about the increased chance of carbon monoxide poisoning with the increased use of cabin heating sources. A CO detector would be a good measure of safety.