Winter Driving Emergency Kit
With icy roads, rapidly falling snow and frigid temperatures, driving during the winter months can often be treacherous. Every winter driver should prepare for the worst by keeping supplies in their vehicles to use in case of emergency. Here is a list of items every winter driver should always have with them:
1. An ice scraper/snow brush. When you stop at the store to pick up a few things you may be greeted with an unwelcome surprise on your windshield. Keeping a scraper and brush in your car will help reduce accidents due to visibility.
2. A cell phone. Don't forget your cell phone when you leave the house. When you drive in winter weather there is always a chance you will have an accident or become stranded somewhere. You phone book should contain the numbers for the local police station, a towing company and friends and family who are near the area in which you will be traveling. It’s also a good idea to program "in case of emergency" numbers. Choose three or so contacts from your phonebook that you would like to be notified in the event of an emergency. In your phone book, type “ICE” before their names so emergency personnel know who to contact in case you are in an accident that leaves you incapacitated.
3. Cat litter, flattened cardboard boxes and a shovel. If your car gets stuck in ice or snow, putting a piece of cardboard sprinkled with cat litter may help give you enough traction to get out of the rut. The shovel is necessary for helping you dig your tires out.
4. A thick blanket and an emergency long-lasting candle or flashlights with batteries and a book of matches or a lighter. The blanket and candle will help keep you warm because if you get in an accident you may not be able to keep your car running for warmth. Also, if your cell phone stops the light will increase your chances of being found by passing travelers.
5. Detailed map of the area where you will be traveling. Keeping maps in your car is always a good idea. Sometimes a GPS can have glitches or cease working completely. Technology is not always reliable.
6. A stocked first aid kit. Keep a travel-sized first aid kit in your glove compartment. It can be very helpful if you get a few scrapes or cuts. Make sure your first aid kit is always stocked with bandages, antiseptic creams and rinses, as well as aspirin and any medication you may need for existing conditions.
7. Water and food. Always keep a few bottles of water in your car as well as non-perishable food items such as crackers and protein bars in case you are stranded anywhere for an extended period of time.
8. Gloves, scarves, hats, jackets and a change of clothes. Keep these extra items in your car so you can always have something clean and dry to wear.
9. Jumper cables. Keep jumper cables in your car at all times to help restart a failed engine.
10. A portable radio. This will allow you to hear weather and traffic conditions should your car become inoperable.
Remember to stock your car with these items before you think you may need them. The key to surviving winter driving is being prepared well in advance.
