We all know that traveling in the winter can be a toss-up when it comes to weather. Between colder temperatures and the enormous impact snow and ice can make, there are many reasons to be cautious driving during this time of year. For your own peace of mind, keeping an emergency kit in your car can ensure you’re in a good position during a worst-case scenario situation. Whether you have car troubles or you’re stuck in a snow bank, the following supply can be life-saving for winter drivers.
Car Emergencies
Unfortunately, lots of things can go wrong with your car. It’s a complicated machine with many parts working together. Here’s what you need to be prepared for a quick repair.
- Jumper cables and an emergency car battery charger
- Tire repair essentials, like a jack, lug wrench, sealant for minor tire punctures, tire inflator & gauge, and a spare tire.
- Unused small no-spill gas can
- Road flares or reflective warning triangles
Tool Box
A toolbox is essential for any winter repair kit. This should keep the bits that you’d need to make repairs or use in an emergency.
- Multi-tool
- Duct tape
- Hand crank flashlight
- Lighter and box of matches in a waterproof container
- A seatbelt cutter and window punch (This should be in an area accessible from the driver’s seat)
Personal Aid
Taking care of yourself during an emergency is the highest priority. Maintaining your body temperature, keeping yourself fed and watered, and dealing with any wounds means you’ll be in the best position to withstand any long emergencies.
- First-aid kit
- Bottled water and nonperishable, high-energy foods (unsalted canned nuts, granola bars, dried fruit, peanut butter)
- Extra warm weather clothes (warm coat, gloves, knit cap or beanie, thick socks, waterproof boots, rain poncho)
- Disposable hand warmers
- Blanket
Winter Weather
Specifically in the winter, it’s important to make sure you can get your car out of any ice or snow that may occur. Even in non-emergency circumstances, the following tools will help you use your car all winter long.
- Collapsible or folding snow shovel
- Windshield scraper and brush
- Non-clumping kitty litter or sand for tire traction
Extra Supplies
Sometimes, the difference between an incident and an emergency is as small as not having access to the things we take for granted, like our phones and bank cards. Keeping these extras in your kit can ensure you’re able to handle any inconveniences without escalation.
- Spare change and cash
- Emergency phone charger
- Paper maps
If You’re Stranded
Do you know what to do in a worst-case winter weather scenario? Here are some tips to help you stay warm and healthy if you’re ever stranded in your car, especially during extreme weather.
- If possible, position your car so it faces into the wind and keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow.
- Before proceeding, put on your warm clothing. It is easier to retain your warmth than it is to warm yourself back up. Keep your layers loose to ensure air circulation and remove jewelry.
- If your kit is in your trunk, bring it into the interior of the car. Take inventory of your supplies and arrange them in order for their use to help ration them.
- Tie something colorful on the car antenna to ensure your vehicle is visible.
- Stay with your vehicle.
- Run the engine sparingly, start with 15-minute intervals and increase as needed. In extreme cold, consider whether your car can reliably restart. If you’re doubtful, it may be necessary to run your engine continuously. Never fall asleep with the engine running.
- When the heater is off, keep your feet tucked into your torso to conserve body heat.
- If you need to leave the vehicle for any distance during a storm, ensure you have a way to find your way back.
Peace of mind doesn’t only mean your tangible emergency response plans. With MetzWood as your partner, you have a team of advocates on your side to ensure that when you’re in an emergency, your claim is taken seriously. Reach out to a MetzWood representative today to see how we can help you.
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