It is important to be prepared for anything while out on the roads. One part of being prepared is to ensure that your vehicle is equipped with an emergency kit. A vehicle emergency kit will ensure you have useful supplies to take care of yourself if you are stranded or stuck. You should ensure your car is prepared to handle emergencies all the time, but it is particularly important in winter because the risks are high and there are a few extra things you will need to consider.
The following is a list of things you should keep in your vehicle to be prepared year-round:
Motorists navigate a city street in white out conditions.
- Food that won’t spoil, such as energy bars
- Water in plastic bottles so they won’t break if frozen (change every six months)
- A blanket and extra clothing and shoes
- A first aid kit with a seatbelt cutter
- A wind–up flashlight
- Travel with a cellphone
- A whistle in case you need to attract attention
- Roadmaps
- Antifreeze/windshield washer fluid
- A tow rope and jumper cables
- Warning lights or road flares
- A fire extinguisher
The following is a list of extra things you should do to prepare for winter driving conditions:
- Keep a small shovel, scraper and snow-brush
- Keep sand, salt or cat litter (non clumping)
- Keep a candle in a deep can and matches
- Ensure the vehicle is serviced and prepared for the stress of winter
- Travel with snow tires to increase handling and traction