Driving during the wintertime can be very dangerous especially when the forecast calls for a large amount of snow or ice. You no longer only have to worry about where your keys are and if you have a full tank of gas but also the ice that must be scrapped from your windows, your tire pressure and traction, shoveling snow around your car and more. For these reasons we recommend the following list of objects to always keep in your car in case of emergency during the winter months.
A Snow Shovel
Always an essential item to have during snowy weather. Not only can a snow shovel help you dig your car out of a rough sport but it can also be used to get snow off of the roof and sides of your car. Remember leaving snow on the roof of your vehicle is very dangerous for it may come down and block your windshield while you are driving or it could fly backward into another driver’s windshield. Having a shovel with you can allow you to clean off or dig out your car whenever you may need.
An Ice Scraper
Just as snow settles on your vehicle so does Ice. Ice can cling to your windows as well as your front and rear windshield making it nearly impossible to see. Having an ice scraper can allow you to easily scrape away ice for full visibility.
Jumper Cables
Cold weather is very tough on your vehicle and especially your battery. It’s important to have jumper cables with you at all times so it can bring your car back to life in case of an emergency.
Flashlight
When I say a flashlight I DO NOT mean your smartphone. A cell phone battery can die or you may need the remaining battery power of a phone to call for help. It’s important to have a actual flashlight with you so you can see clearly when changing a tire or using jumping cables without wastefully utilizing other resources.
Empty Gas Can
You should not keep gas in your car but an empty gas can could save you from the trouble and expense of a tow. If you run out of gas and have an empty gas can in your car you can walk to the nearest gas station and get the gallon of gas you will need to either get to the gas station in your vehicle or to a different safe location.
Spare Tire
Bald tires are extremely dangerous during the winter months. You should always get a set of all season or snow tires before driving in any kind of storm and having a spare is essential.
Air Compressor
Cold air causes a dramatic loss of tire pressure. It’s important to maintain your tires and give them more air when need be. An air compressor makes the job simple and easy to both detect the tires current pressure and give any extra air it may require. This simple tool can prevent you from major catastrophe such as a flat tire during harsh weather.
First Aid Kit
No matter what the season it is always important to have a first aid kit on hand. Safety first is very important for your vehicle and yourself.
Small Tool Kit
You don’t have to be a mechanic to know how to use basic tools to change a tire or to perform minor repairs. Investing in a basic tool kit can save you a major headache should a problem occur especially in the winter season.
Kitty Litter
It sounds crazy but during winter weather it can be very helpful to keep some kitty litter hidden in your car. When you are in one of those unfortunate situations where you are stuck in the snow and your tires keep turning but your car isn’t going anywhere Kitty Litter can save the day! Spread the kitty litter underneath your tires to give them added traction and you will be able to get your vehicle unstuck.
Pohanka Volkswagen of Salisbury 