“Oh the weather outside is frightful…” While these familiar song lyrics can be
comforting and nostalgic when gathered snugly in a warm house, they have a much
more ominous connotation during a winter storm!
Whatever the winter weather, traveling itself doesn’t need to be
frightful if you’re prepared. Before the
temperature drops and flurries make it to the forecast, make sure your car is
stocked with emergency items.
Staying Safe Where You Are
Prolonged
exposure to cold weather can create difficult situation. Make sure you have items for every area of
concern!
•
Warmth: Even if you’re wearing a winter coat,
extra warmth is vital. Depending on the size of your family, keep at least a
few blankets or sleeping bags in your car. Hand warmers and extra winter
clothes could come in handy as well.
•
Connection: Bring a separate emergency radio
to hear weather updates even if your car dies.
Models come in battery-powered, wind-up, and solar models. Some models have the option for a combination
of power sources.
•
Light: Nights are long during the
winter months. Make sure you have LED
flashlights and/or headlamps in your emergency kit. Flares generate additional light so you can
be spotted by rescuers.
•
Non-Perishable Food: Dehydrated
foods like jerky or dried fruit are a compact source of nutrients. Also consider granola bars, trail mix, and
nuts. Hard candies can be a good, quick
source of sugar and energy.
•
First Aid: Kits can be purchased
pre-made or you can assemble your own. Hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and toilet
paper are other important items.
•
All-Purpose Problem-Solving: Extra
items like trash bags, duct tape, tarp, or utility rope like paracord are
helpful to have to troubleshoot unexpected situations. Remember extra batteries for every item
that’s battery operated!
Troubleshooting Car Problems
These are items you should be carrying your car no
matter the weather!
• Jumper
Cables: Restart your car’s dead battery with the help of a friendly passerby.
• Emergency
Tire Sealant: If your problem is a flat tire, a quick repair could at least get
you to the nearest gas station.
•
Traction: A bag of sand or kitty
litter can be spread on the ground to add traction when you’re trying to work
your car out of a tough spot.
•
Snow & Ice Removal: If you
have the space in your car, pack a shovel to dig you out of a tough spot. An ice
scraper is a must as well.
And, of course, make sure you stop into Expressway
Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram to make sure your car is running smoothly before winter
rolls around!
