With icy roads, snow and strong winds, winter can be a dangerous time to drive. Abandoning your obligations for a safer driving day may not be an option, leaving you to attempt to navigate the roads as safely as possible.
Part of being safe on the road is having your vehicle ready for winter and stocked with supplies. It may be easy to dismiss adding a winter emergency kit to your car. Still, it can make a significant impact if you or a loved one have an emergency on the road.
Here are some of the most important items to put in your vehicle this winter.
Focus on the basics
Some supply lists are so detailed that you would need another car to carry around the kit. When you have limited space, you will need to consider what supplies will be the most beneficial and likely to be helpful in an emergency. Some of the most critical items should include:
- Coats or blankets if you are stranded for a long time
- Sand, salt or traction pads if you are stuck
- Booster cables to jumpstart a dead battery
- Basic first aid kit for injuries from an accident
- Flashlight for directing traffic, seeking help or fixing your car
Also, before winter, you should ensure that you have an inflated spare and the tools you need to change your tire if you experience a flat. Whether you typically drive short distances or have a long commute, your emergency kit can support you in various situations.
A little more room
Some cars have more space for emergency equipment than others. If you have more space in your vehicle, you may want to consider adding other items to your emergency kit, such as:
- A portable shovel for digging your car out of snow
- Cones or other reflective equipment to identify your vehicle on a dark road
- A fire extinguisher
- Water and shelf-stable food if you are stranded for a long time
- Tow strap that can support your vehicle to get your car out of a ditch or snowbank
These additional items can be helpful for your own use or if you see someone stuck or stranded on the road. While many Minnesotans are confident winter drivers, icy conditions can make for a dangerous drive.
