Winter weather can be unpredictable, which is why you should always be prepared for the worst. We recommend creating a kit to keep in your car in case of emergency. Here are some items you should include:
- Ice scraper: Clear vision is vital to safe driving. Make sure you remove all snow and ice from all of your windows.
- Salt, sand or cat litter: A handful of any of these materials can create traction for spinning tires on snow or ice.
- Foldable shovel: Stuck in the snow? A shovel will help dig your car out.
- Windshield wiper fluid: Cars tend to be dirtier in the winter months, which means you’ll use more windshield wiper fluid. Make sure to carry an extra jug, and always keep your reservoir full.
- Cell phone and charger: This may seem obvious, but these are two of the most important items to have in an emergency situation.
- Flashlight and batteries: If your car breaks down or is stuck, a flashlight will help you be seen and see other drivers.
- Flares: Flares are another way to warn other drivers of your presence.
- Jumper cables: Car batteries lose 33% of its power when the temperature dips below zero, causing them to die more often in the winter, making jumper cables vital.
- First-aid kit: With the right materials, a first-aid kit may save you or a passenger’s life in an emergency situation. Make sure to keep a pre-stocked kit in your car at all times.
- Bottled water: Humans can go days without food, but can become dehydrated quickly. Therefore, you should keep a couple of bottles in your kit.
- Blankets: If stranded, a blanket, sleeping bag or metal space blanket can help retain body heat until you’re rescued.
- Whistle: When stranded, being heard can help you to be found more easily.
Assemble these items in a durable case or storage bin, and keep in a reachable place. With this kit, you’ll be well prepared for a winter weather emergency!