Tips on How to Make Your Winter Emergency Kit

Winter Emergency Kit

Having a winter emergency kit in your vehicle may give you an advantage during Wisconsin’s crazy winter months. Winter storms can range from a moderate snow cover of a few inches or a blizzard with strong winds and road drifts that can add up to a few feet or more of snow. Whether traveling in a moderate snowfall or a blizzard, roads can become dangerous. In an event that you are stuck in a storm with only your vehicle to protect you from the elements, having an emergency kit can become a lifesaver. Thanks to readywisconsin.wi.gov, we have a few tips on how to make a winter emergency kit.

Tips

The first thing you’ll need is a small, sturdy shovel that will fit in your trunk. Next, something you may already have in your car, a windshield scraper and a small broom. You will also need flashlights, a radio, extra batteries, cell phone charger, a first aid kit with a pocket knife, and emergency flares and reflectors. You’ll also want to pack boots, a blanket, extra hats, socks and mittens to keep warm with. Having small containers of water are a good idea, and because of their size, can be thawed much faster if frozen. Having snacks available such as granola bars, raisins and nuts are a necessity and could keep you from going hungry. Make sure the snacks you choose are what you would normally eat, rotating your snacks will help keep your snacks from becoming stale. Road salt, sand, or cat litter can be used as traction to help get your vehicle out of a slippery situation. It’s also good to have jumper cables and a tow chain or rope if the tow truck is nowhere in sight and a good Samaritan is willing to help.

Before Venturing Out

Before you head out into a storm, you’ll want to make sure your gas tank is at least half full. It’s not fun being stuck on the side of the road with no gas in the middle of a snowstorm. Also, tell someone where you are going and what route you will take. If you don’t arrive at your destination, someone will know where to look for you.

For a printable list, click here, and for more tips, visit readywisconsin.wi.gov. Also, check out our Website for great deals on AWD vehicles that are great for winter! For more tips like this, Like us on Facebook!