What Every Car Needs for Safe Winter Operation
Winter driving conditions are inherently hazardous. That’s why every vehicle should have an emergency kit once the temperature starts to drop. That kit should include standard things like jumper cables and first-aid supplies. But there are other essential winter items that every vehicle needs:
So, what should you have in your trunk in case of a winter emergency? Here are the Top Thirteen:
- Snow shovel: This is a must for digging your car out of any snowy situation.
- Snow Socks: If you’ve never heard of them, they’re a great temporary alternative to snow chains. They fit easily over your tires and get you up and over a slippery hill.
- Flashlight with fresh batteries. If you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere, a reliable flashlight can put a spotlight on a dark problem.
- Spare Phone Charger: Consider a hand crank version so if your car battery dies, you can still generate electricity manually to power up your phone.
- Gas Can: (yes, filled with gas)
- External Battery Charger: Not everyone has jumper cables or is a Good Samaritan. So having the ability to jumpstart your vehicle must rest in your own hands.
- Hand Warmers and Wool Blanket: Turning off your vehicle saves fuel and keeps deadly exhaust from creeping into the cabin. But to ensure warmth, use a blanket and hand warmers.
- A Decent Spare Tire: Why? Because only having a compact/donut spare wheel simply can’t ensure safe travel home during inclement conditions.
- LED Flashers/Flares: Battery-powered lights ensure you’re visible to other drivers. But flares put out actual heat so they won’t get buried in snow.
- Basic Tool Kit: For those minor mechanical issues you can fix on your own.
- Kitty Litter: A 20-lb bag not only helps weigh your vehicle down for better traction, you can also sprinkle the litter on the road to gain traction on any icy predicament.
- Windshield De-Icer: A bottle of this magic mixer saves you valuable time in the morning before your commute, but it can also be used to melt ice on the road or on any frozen car parts.
- Food and Drink: Even though you won’t get stranded for more than a day, having a few energy bars and an energy drink wouldn't hurt. Why the need for a power drink? The electrolytes and sugars won’t freeze the liquid in the bottle, meaning you’ll have liquid when you need it.
With preplanning and having the right items for survival in your vehicle, you can ensure your preparedness in case of an emergency during road travel. If you need other tips on winter road safety or just want to ensure your current vehicle meets winter driving standards, free to come by our shop. Visit the contact us page to make an appointment, and we look forward to seeing you soon.
