Winter Emergency Kit

Sometimes winter weather can be a challenge. Sudden changes in conditions could cause you to become stranded, or could cause you to slide off the road. Or perhaps you have unexpected car trouble.  Keeping the proper essentials in your car can help you brave the elements while you wait for help.

·        Flash Light with fresh batteries.  This will be very helpful if you need to change a tire, check under the hood for a malfunction or check over the area where you are stranded. 

·        Jumper Cables.  Batteries can react to extreme temperatures.  Having a set of cables with you can aid in getting the car started so you can bring it into the shop for service, or get you home. 

·        Cell Phone Charger.  Make sure that you have a car charger and an extra wall charger.  The car charger will help make sure your phone is charged while you are with the vehicle, but if for some reason you need to find shelter having the wall charger will make sure you are able to communicate with your loved ones to let them know where you are staying.

·        Small Tool Kit.  Keeping basic tools; screw drivers, wrench, pliers and duct tape could help you make any minor repairs that may help you get home or to a repair facility nearby

·        Flares or Reflectors.  Signals are very important to notify oncoming traffic where you are located and that you are in distress.

·        Blankets.  Keep an extra blanket for each person in the car. 

·        Kitty Litter. A small bag of kitty litter can help you gain traction on slick surfaces

·        Hat and Gloves.  It is normally best to stay with your vehicle until help arrives, but sometimes this may not be possible. Additionally, the hat and gloves will help you brave the elements as you assess the situation outside of the car.

·        First Aid Kit.  Keeping basic first aid essentials in your vehicle at all times just makes good sense.

·        Foldable Shovel. Digging out compacted snow from under the car or around the wheels is much easier with a proper shovel. Plus, using your hands, even in gloves, can cool you down fast.    

·        Ice Scrapper and/or snow brush

·        Food and Water.  Keep some snacks, something non perishable, for each member of the family as well as water in case you need to wait for assistance. 

While there is no way to predict a breakdown or an accident there are a few steps you could take to try to lessen the chances of being stranded by your car.  Always pay attention to the weather forecast, make sure you are never below a half a tank of gas and always make sure to have your routine maintenance done.