Be Winter Proactive: Carry These Five Items In Your Vehicle
Winter conditions can be unpredictable. Although your vehicle may be completely prepared to handle most stormy days, a chance exists you may become stuck. If this occurs, you need to be prepared. Whether you are an ice and snow removal professional, a snow plow driver, or the average North American on your way to work, it is important to be prepared.
Five Essential Items for Winter Vehicular Preparedness
By the time the first snow rolls around, or at least quickly after it falls, you have made the necessary adjustment. Replaced windshield wiper fluid, bought anti-freeze, and, of course, put on those winter tires. You may even have thrown in a snow scraper and even a small (even foldable) shovel if you are familiar with getting stuck. Some people often add a bag of sand for traction. These are all part of a winter survival kit.
Most people have these on hand if they live in snowy climes. They have no desire to get stuck – usually again. However, many people do not think beyond the basics. They do not prepare for the eventuality of being trapped inside a vehicle. If you are forced to remain in your car because you are stuck, kitty litter and a shovel serves little purpose. What you need are the following five items:
1. Beverages: You should have something to drink, preferably something warm, but we know the chances of you having just packed a thermostat full of coffee or tea are rather slim. Water, sodas, or similar drinks are easier to leave in the car without fear of spoiling.
2. Snacks: It is highly unlikely you are returning home from a fast food stop or from shopping. Therefore, you need to make sure you have a small supply of snacks on hand. Energy or cereal bars are good as they are filling and generally healthy. They also last without fear of going bad.
3. Blankets: Always keep a blanket or two in the vehicle. They come in handy for a variety of purposes. In a scenario where the vehicle is stuck for a few hours or even overnight, they may very well prevent you from freezing.
4. Extra Clothing: Many people keep a spare change of clothes in the car. Sometimes, it is for working out at the gym afterward; sometimes it is for work. Layering your clothing is one sure way to help your body retain heat. Sweat pants and hoodies are excellent extras to have in an emergency.
5. Flashlights/candle and matches: If you get caught in a blizzard and are forced to wait it out, having a source of light is a wonderful thing. It enables you to see clearly inside the car to locate items you need. If you have plenty of batteries and the flashlight is fully charged, you can even read a book – something I almost always take everywhere I go.
If you have a candle, be sure to use it carefully. Its advantage over a flashlight is its ability to keep your hands warm.
Most people have a cell phone. It may or may not be helpful. If the reception is not clear or non-existent, it offers little support. Moreover, while it may help locate you, you may still have to wait an hour or more before any help can come. As a result, it is just as important to have the above five in addition to any communication device.
Winter Emergency Kit
Always make sure you keep a winter emergency kit in your trunk during the cold and snowy months. Some companies even produce ready-made kits, so you do not have to do so yourself. Here is hoping you never have to use it. However, if something happens and you do not have snow removal equipment or a winter survival kit, you will quickly wish you did.
