It’s hard to think of winter when the weather is so warm however now is the time to create an emergency kit for your vehicle. Being prepared for all eventualities will make your winter driving much easier.
Winter will be here before you know it and now is the time to create an emergency kit for your vehicle. Make sure that you’re prepared for every eventuality winter can throw at you – whether it’s snowstorms, icy roads or engine failures – by putting together your kit. Not sure where to start? Read on for a list of the essentials.
Medical Supplies
Having a first-aid kit is essential when driving in winter conditions. You can buy a pre-made one from any auto parts store or perhaps your local supermarket – just ensure that it has bandages, alcohol wipes, and other first-aid times. If you regularly take prescription medications, it may be wise to keep a supply in your first aid kit in the event you may be stranded for a day or two.
Paperwork
One of the hazards of Colorado winters is that harsh weather has the potential to increase your chances of having an accident. Just in case anything happens, it’s always best to keep official documents in your vehicle, enabling you to share your information with others in an emergency. You’ll need:
- A copy of your license
- A copy of your Insurance Policy Number
- The contact information of your immediate family
It’s also worth keeping a picture of yourself with your name, age, home address and medical records handy so that, in the event of a crash, you can be identified and given appropriate treatment.
Tools
In case you get blocked by road closures or poor driving conditions, it’s worth having a few emergency tools at hand. A charged-up smart phone and an external battery to charge your phone will be useful if you need to make a call. If you are ever stuck, you’ll have a higher chance of being able to get help.
You should also carry a manually-powered torch and a Swiss Army knife. If you ever get stuck while driving in the snow and need to wait for breakdown services, you might appreciate having a battery-powered radio to pass the time, too.
Food
If there’s one thing that you don’t want to forget in your emergency kit, it’s water. It may sound a little excessive, but just to be on the safe side, try and store enough water to last you three days. You’ll need about 2 gallons.
You should also keep a supply of canned foods that don’t need to be cooked. Try and have all food groups on hand, including meats, fish, fruit and vegetables. Include foods that are easily canned and preserved, such as tuna, spam, pears, apricots, sweet corn, carrots and maybe even chickpeas and beans. It might be useful to keep cereal bars and crackers, too. Don’t forget to pack a can opener, plate and cup!
Clothing
Your emergency kit should also include spare clothes to keep you warm and dry. I’d suggest:
- Water-proof hiking boots
- Fleeced trousers and jumpers
- Gloves, hat and scarves
- Wool socks and trousers
- A raincoat
You could also add a few treats to your kit, such as sweets or chocolate, to keep up your spirits if you do break down. As long as you’ve got the basics listed above, however, you’ll be good to go this winter!