Preparing for Winter: 5 Items For Your Car
Winter car preparation is crucial for staying safe in cold weather emergencies on the road. Being prepared will make things easier if you get into a crash, break down, or get stuck in the snow this winter. Here are five essential items you need to stay safe:
- Warmth. You need a way to stay warm if you are stranded. Keep things like an extra coat, blanket, hat, gloves, or scarf in your car in case of an emergency.
- Shovel. If you get stuck in a snow bank, you want to be able to dig your car out. Having a sandbag in your trunk can help if you have front wheel drive. Putting that weight in the back can help you get out of the snow easier. Also, if you need to, you can pour some of that sand onto the snow which gives a little more traction to help you drive out.
- Lights. Whether it is flashlights or something reflective you can put on the road around your car, you’ll need something to keep you safe in the dark. Lights can also help flag down help.
- Food and water. Especially if you have kids in the car with you, you want to make sure that you have something to eat and drink if you could be stuck for a while.
- First aid kit. If you do not already have this item in your car, just get a basic first aid kit that includes small bandages, some antibiotic ointment, and maybe a pain reliever.
References:
https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/winter/driving
https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips
https://exchange.aaa.com/safety/driving-advice/winter-driving-tips/#.Xc206JJKjIU
Source: Natalie Jones, Family Health Extension Specialist, University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture
Social media post: With cold winter weather on our radar, you should make sure your car is prepared in case of an emergency. We have a list of things you should pack in your car to keep you safe in case you get stranded.