What to Include in Your Wintertime Emergency Car Safety Kit

Mother Nature continues to batter much of the country. Wind chill factors put much of the Midwest well below zero. Some areas in the south have been warned of a polar plunge that puts them firmly in the negative numbers. We even received snow squall warnings right here in New Jersey over the weekend. Officials are warning everyone to stay off the roads whenever possible. But if you must travel, it would be smart to keep an emergency car safety kit with you at all times.

What to Include in Your Wintertime Emergency Car Safety Kit

What should you include in your emergency car kit this winter? Here’s a list of essential items you should keep in your vehicle.

• First aid kit
• Jumper cables
• Chains (make sure they fit the tires on your car)
• Flares
• Flashlight
• Ice scraper
• Tow rope
• Blanket, hat, gloves/mittens
• Extra cell phone charger
• Water and snacks (cheese and crackers, trail mix, etc.)
• Bag of sand or kitty litter (for extra traction when stuck)

Also, never let your gas tank go below halfway. Fill it up as often as possible. You do not want to run out of gas and have to hike to the next gas station in below-freezing temperatures.

Staying Safe During a Snow Squall

First, get off the road at the next available safe exit. If that is not possible, ease off the gas to slow down. Avoid slamming on your brakes as this may cause you to spin out or slide into another vehicle or barrier. Pull your car over to the side of the road. Turn your hazard lights on and keep low-beam lights on so other cars can see you. When safe to do so, exit your vehicle. Get as far away from the street or highway as possible.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes