Winter Emergency Kit for Your Car

With today's winter storm warning in effect I thought writing about creating & keeping a "winter car kit" in your car would be a good topic.

Keeping an emergency kit in each of your cars is not as difficult as you might think.  You can buy them "pre-packaged" and ready to go from car clubs, car accessory stores or make your own.  Here is a list of ideas for what to include:

•   Jumper cables

•   Blanket (thermal not cotton is better)

•   Flashlight & extra batteries

•   Shovel

•   Bottled Water

•   High energy foods (energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, etc)

•   Fire extinguisher

•   First aid kit

•   Rope/chain for towing

•   Distress flag (red bandana or shop towel)

Remember that when you are stuck in snow to crack your windows a little bit for fresh air to come in.  Running your car for a few minutes every hour to provide heat is ok but take extra care to check your tailpipe regularly for  being clogged with snow, etc.   Do not get out of your car and walk unless you can see the building/business/home you want to walk to.

If at all possible do not go out during bad weather or winter storm warnings as the road conditions can change quickly.