Prepare for Winter Emergencies In Your Car

Be sure your car is ready this winter season. It can save your life. This article will explain how to be sure your car is prepared before winter weather hits, what to have in your emergency kit, and what to do if you get stuck in a winter storm.

Before winter storms strike be sure your car is ready. Be sure to check your car's antifreeze level. Clean the terminals of your car's battery so you don't have to worry about a dead battery. Check the break fluid levels and be sure to have your breaks checked for wear. Be sure you have no exhaust leaks. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and deadly. Check your oil and wiper fluid levels. Tires should be checked. Some areas require chains or studded tires. And keep your gas tank at least half filled.

Now that you know your car is ready, make sure it is safe to travel. Check and follow any advisories. These are to protect you, not to inconvenience you. If advisories tell you it isn't safe to travel, stay home! There is no trip worth risking your life for.

If you decide you will travel, be sure to allow extra time to reach you destination safely. Let someone know what route you plan to take. If you become stranded this will allow rescuers to find you faster. Be sure to take a cell phone and a charger. And don't forget your emergency kit.

An emergency kit for your car should contain a shovel and windshield scraper. It's also important to carry a battery operated radio with extra batteries and a flashlight. Be sure to carry extra clothing and blankets. Carry water, snack foods, matches, a knife and basic tools, and a can to melt water. Tissues, toilet paper and trash bags are also good to have on hand. As is a compass and a map. You should also carry a tow chain or rope, jumper cables, flares, salt, sand or cat litter, and a flag or brightly colored cloth to use as a flag.

If you get stranded in a storm don't panic. And don't go looking for help. Stay with your vehicle and turn on your hazard lights. Tie you flag to your side mirror or to the antennae of your car so you can be spotted easily.