Staying safe on the roads this winter!

SCRAPER/BRUSH

Heavy snow and ice can keep you from seeing and being seen in wintery weather. Be sure to thoroughly clear your front, back and side windows, all mirrors, headlights and taillights as well. Clearing as much snow as possible from the roof of your car is also important.

WINTER HAT, WATERPROOF GLOVES AND SCARF

Hats, gloves and scarves will help you to use and conserve your own body heat to stay warm. Be sure to keep them in the car for you, your children and any others who may be traveling with you. If stranded by road conditions, experts recommend staying in your vehicle and waiting for help if you can. Staying in your car and keeping your hazard lights on as long as possible makes it easier to locate you. 

WOOL OR FLEECE BLANKET

This conserves extra body heat and provides warmth. Again, pack enough for you and your passengers.

EMPTY METAL CAN, CANDLE, MATCHES AND LIGHTER

If your family becomes stranded, lighting the candle will provide light and some warmth. The metal can keeps the flame protected and will also conduct heat from the flame that can be used to keep hands warm or melt snow and ice around your tires. A metal coffee can works well or you can pick up a metal paint can at most hardware stores for around $10.

SHOVEL AND KITTY LITTER

A collapsable shovel that will fit in most car trunks costs between $15-$35 and will come in handy if you need to dig yourself out. It's also important to make sure snow is not obstructing the tailpipe of your vehicle. The kitty litter will help your tires gain traction in the snow if you find yourself stuck.

NON-PERISHABLE SNACKS AND WATER

Pack nuts, crackers, granola or protein bars for nourishment and bottled water for hydration in case you are stranded for an extended period of time.

FLASHLIGHT WITH EXTRA BATTERIES

This will not only help you to see in the dark, but it will also help first responders/rescuers to locate you if needed.

CELL PHONE CORD AND CAR CHARGER

Your cell phone can be your lifeline. Use it to call for help and to identify your exact location for rescuers. Use your phone wisely and conserve your battery. If stranded, don’t use your phone’s battery power for “extras” like listening to music or playing games. Charge your phone each time the engine is turned on for warmth to “double” the benefit of gasoline usage.

In addition to stocking your emergency winter travel pack, you can take other precautions to keep you and your family safe in winter weather. Listen often to weather and traffic reports and keep the windshield wiper fluid and gas tanks between half-full and full at all times. Wear warm, insulated and deep-treaded boots each time you go out or keep them in your car. The best way to avoid being stranded is to stay home, if possible when severe weather is reported for your area and route, but if you do need to go out, hopefully, you'll find these tips useful. Safe travels!