EMERGENCY KIT ESSENTIALS

Prepare a winter emergency kit to ensure safety and comfort in case of vehicle breakdown or delays due to snow and ice. This kit should include items that help you stay warm, hydrated, visible, and able to communicate.

Essential items include:

• First aid kit
• Non-perishable food and water
• Flashlights with extra batteries
• Jumper cables
• Traction aids (sand, cat litter, road salt, and cardboard)
• Seat belt cutter
• Portable phone charger
• Snowbrush, ice scraper, shovel, and windshield washer fluid
• Extra blankets, warm clothing, and emergency heat sources

VEHICLE PREPARATION

Conduct preventive maintenance before winter to avoid breakdowns in severe weather. Ensure all vehicle systems are functioning properly, and visibility is not compromised.

• Inspect battery, belts, brakes, tires, lights, windshield wipers, defroster, heater, and exhaust system.
• Check tire tread and air pressure frequently.
• Maintain at least a half tank of gas.
• Clear snow and ice from all vehicle surfaces for full visibility.
• Ensure wiper blades exert enough pressure and washer fluid is topped off.

Winter Driving Tips

• Drive Slowly & Defensively: Adjust speed to match poor road conditions and anticipate hazards.
• Increase Following Distance: Maintain 8-10 seconds or more between vehicles.
• Avoid Cruise Control: It can cause unexpected acceleration and loss of control.
• Avoid Sudden Stops: Brake gently to prevent skidding.
• Don't Stop on Hills: Gain momentum on flat ground before cllimbing.
• Combat Fatigue: Take regular breaks to stay alert.
• Use Headlights: Keep them clean and on for better visibility.
• Avoid Tailgating: Especially on bridges and overpasses, which freeze first.
• Understand 4WD Limits: Helps with traction but not with stopping.

Ice Awareness

• Wet roads can freeze when temperatures drop below 32°F.
• Melting snow and ice can refreeze at night.
• Ice forms faster on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas.
• Ice on mirrors, antennas, and signs may signal icy roads.

If You Get Stuck

• Stay with Your Vehicle: It provides shelter and is easier to locate.
• Turn on Hazards: Increase visibility and mark your vehicle.
• Inform Others: Share your destination and expected arrival time.
• Allow Extra Time: Delays are common in snowy regions, especially where snow is rare, and road crews may be limited.

Additional Safety Tips

• Drive Carefully in Populated Areas: Watch for pedestrians and vehicles.
• Pull Over if Visibility is Poor: Wait for conditions to improve.
• Steer Into a Skid: Regain control smoothly.
• Know Your ABS: Maintain firm pressure if ABS activates.