While we have had a stretch of nice weather the last few weeks here in Eastern Iowa, we aren’t out of winter just yet. You never know how the weather can change during the end of January through March, so if you don’t already have a winter emergency kit in your car, hop to it and get one in there NOW. Here’s a list of some things to include along with some helpful tips to keep you safe during these last months of winter. This is not an all-inclusive list, so use your judgement and pack anything else you deem necessary.
Winter Car Emergency Kit
- Windshield scraper
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Water
- Non-perishable snack food
- Extra hats, socks and gloves
- First Aid Kit
- Jumper cables
- Fluorescent distress flag
- Cell phone charger
- Shovel
- Battery powered radio
- Blankets
After you have your kit packed here are some tips to remember in case you end up stranded.
- Tie your fluorescent distress flag on your antenna or hang it out your window. If you are stranded at night keep your dome light on to make you more visible.
- Stay in your vehicle. Your vehicle is shelter from the storm, if you attempt to walk to get help you could easily become lost.
- Only run the engine for 10 minutes every hour and make sure the exhaust pipe is free of snow, opening a window while the engine is running is a good idea as well.
- If you have a passenger make sure one of you is awake at all times to watch for help.
Being prepared can always help in these situations as well. Make sure your vehicle’s gas tank is at least half full and that the tires are properly inflated and it always helps to have someone knowing which route you will be taking to your destination.
No one ever expects to be stranded in their car, but is it always better to be safe than sorry! Spring is just around the corner, let’s make sure we finish out the winter season safely!
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