Unless you live in Southern California or somewhere equally as warm in the winter, driving during those months can be a real headache.
Cold weather completely changes the game as for how you need to prepare for the unexpected. For example, breaking down in the middle of the summer usually isn’t a big deal. You might sweat a little more than usual, but more often than not, everything is OK.
Breaking down in the winter? You better make sure you’re prepared, otherwise you could be in for a long, cold night.
Below are some additional steps that you should take to prepare your car for those unexpected winter emergencies.
- Keep It Maintained
Taking care of your car is the best thing you can do as a winter preparation. Many emergencies can be avoided all-together simply by keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape.
Staying up to date on oil changes, topping off fluids, and keeping a sharp eye on your brakes are just a few of the things for you maintain regularly.
For cold weather especially, you should make sure your antifreeze is the appropriate mixture and level. Also, the special no-freeze windshield wiper fluid is a must for winter storms and clearing off debris.
- Have an Emergency Kit
Besides staying on top of maintenance, creating a winter emergency kit for your car can be a life saver.
First, you should make sure you have a good set of jumper cables. Then, double-check on the essentials such as a spare tire, lift jack, and lug wrench.
It would also be a good idea to keep a first aid kit and something like a Life hammer in your car for emergency escapes.
Besides that, you should really consider wearing or keeping a wrist watch in your glove box. This will guarantee that you never lose track of time, even if you break down in the middle of nowhere. Digital watches are better than analog, as they’re much more versatile and offer more utility.
- Bring Extra Food, Water, and Pack Blankets
Being stranded on the side of the road in the winters months is extremely scary. There’s a potential that you could be there for a few hours or longer without any heat, food, or water.
That’s why it is absolutely essential that you also pack all three when going on longer trips during winter. Water is especially important because it’s easy to forget to drink when it’s not hot and sunny out.
There probably won’t be a gas station within a few miles everywhere you go. On the off chance you end up breaking down, you will be glad you packed the extra food and water to keep you nourished and hydrated.
As for the blankets, it’s going to be cold as all heck without your car’s heat. Having a few blankets in your trunk can mean the difference between freezing all night or staying comfortable.
Closing Thoughts
The winter months can be a very unforgiving time. Don’t let yourself be caught off-guard in an emergency situation. Follow the steps above to ensure you’re prepared just in case the unexpected happens.
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