If you haven’t already done so, now is the perfect time to prepare your car for winter, especially if you plan on taking advantage of recent snowfall in the mountains.
Run a quick auto maintenance check
The most important thing you can do to prepare for an emergency on the road is to have a well maintained vehicle.
- Check the battery and charging systems
- Flush anti-freeze and put in new anti-freeze in the cooling system
- Check heaters
- Check windshield wipers
- Check tire tread depth and tire pressure
- Check the brakes
- Check all lights – interior and exterior
Have Proper Car Insurance
No one wants to be an accident, but the fact of the matter is they happen all the time. Accidents happen even more during inclimate weather. You’ll want to have enough car insurance to completely cover you and your family. Make sure to have copies of your current car insurance in your car.
Create a cold weather emergency kit
One of the last things that you want to happen is to not have the necessary supplies you need in case you do get stuck out in the cold or snow. Spending a few minutes preparing can not only reduce frustration, but it also could save your life. Hypothermia is no joke!
- First aid kit – Hopefully you already have one in the car;
- Rescue tool in glove box (or within arm’s reach) – Rescue tools should include both a seat belt cutter and a glass breaker;
- Windshield wiper and scraper – If you’re in a SUV, consider getting a windshield wiper and scraper with an extended handle;
- Flashlights with extra batteries – LED flashlights use less energy and last longer;
- Water – Make sure you have enough water for two days for each person in the vehicle
- Snack foods – choose snacks with high protein and enough fat. Energy bars are a perfect emergency kit staple;
- Extras of any necessary medication – Make sure you have enough of any medications that you or your other passengers will need;
- Extra blankets or sleeping bags;
- Extra gloves and socks – Having extra gloves and dry socks will help you keep you warmer longer;
- Swiss army or utility knife;
- Road flares and/or other emergency signaling; and
- Jumper cables.
Stay warm and safe driving!
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