How to Make a Winter Car Emergency Kit

“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!