Winter Emergency Car Kit
While most of us don’t do a a lot of traveling via car during the winter, other than the holiday maybe, there are some things that every car owner should have in their vehicles should you come into an emergency on the road. There are several things that are important to have on hand in case of a winter car emergency. Here is how to build your winter car emergency kit.
Winter Car Emergency Kit
First aid kit – This is something to have on hand during all season, but it can come in handy in the winter especially. In it, make sure you have band-aids, gauze, antibacterial ointment, elastic bandages for sprained ankles, and warming items such as “Hot Hands”.
Extra blankets – Sometimes, you may not be able to run your heater in the winter during an emergency, so it it vital you have these on hand. The best kind to get are Army-issued wool ones which can be purchased at outdoor dear stores and Army surplus stores. Make sure to have at least one for each member of your family.
Flares and flashlights – In the winter, fog can be an issue, so make sure you have flares on hand in case you get stranded so other motorists can see you need help.
Sand or clay cat litter – This adds weight to your trunk helping you to void fishtailing, but also can be poured out near your tires in the winter to help you gain traction should you get stuck in the snow.
Small foldable shovel – This will also help you dig yourself out if you are stuck in a snow mound.
Dried foods – Keep a bag of beef jerky, dried fruit and other foods that are shelf stable in any temp in your trunk in case you find yourself stranded for a long period of time. Water is often not an issue like it is in the summer, because you can consume snow, but maybe throw a cup in kit as well so you have a way to drink it if you would like.
Emergency car care kit– Have tire sealant and jumper cables available so you can fix minor issues that seem to happen a lot in the winter. It is also a great idea to get roadside assistance if you don’t have it already.
Winter clothing – Keep some spare hats, gloves, socks and even jackets in the car if you can. When socks and gloves get wet, it can be very dangerous as it will lead to frostbite very easily, so make sure you have some spare dry ones. Keep them sealed in a plastic zippered bag if possible to keep them dry.
Spare cheap cell phone – Did you know that any cell phone will dial 9-1-1 even if it is not currently on a plan? Buy a very cheap cell phone and keep it charged to place in your car for emergencies. You might even try wrapping it in the wool blankets so it stays warmers and will stay in one piece should you have an accident.
Extra ice scraper – This way you will know that even if you break yours, you will still have a way to brush off snow and scrape ice.
Tire chains – Having a set of chain is important because you never know when the weather will change and you will need them. Keep some handy, especially if you plan on doing holiday driving.
What are some things you keep in your car for emergencies in the winter?
