Winter Storm Preparedness Part 2

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

In winter storm preparedness Part 1 we discussed preparing your home..

Let's discuss you car and Emergency kits in Part 2!

You may find yourself having to travel in the winter at some point or maybe there is an emergency and you have to go out in stormy weather. Don't get caught off guard without the basic things that you need.

According to the CDC, here is a list of items that you should have in your car during the winter months.

• Cell phone, portable charger, and extra batteries.
• Items to stay warm such as extra hats, coats, mittens, and blankets.
• Windshield scraper
• Shovel
• Battery-powered radio with extra batteries
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Water and snack food
• First aid kit with any necessary medications and a pocket knife
• Tow chains or rope
• Tire chains
• Canned compressed air with sealant for emergency tire repair
• Cat litter or sand to help tires get traction, or road salt to melt ice
• Booster cables with fully charged battery or jumper cables
• Hazard or other reflectors
• Bright colored flag or help signs, emergency distress flag, and/or emergency flares
• Waterproof matches and a can to melt snow for water

Make sure that your cars maintenance is up to date before the cold weather hits!

• Replace windshield wiper solution with a wintertime solution.
• Check the antifreeze levels
• Make sure that your tires are winter ready
• Keep gas tank near full to avoid ice in the fuel lines.

Having an emergency kit in your car is a great idea because you never know when you may be stranded in your vehicle or you may have to leave your home quickly and you can't grab your emergency kit from there.

Here are some personal items to have in your emergency kit in addition to what you already have stored in your car:

• Prescription medications.
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives.
• Glasses and contact lens solution.
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream.
• Pet food and extra water for your pet.
• Cash or traveler's checks.
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes.
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils.
• Paper and pencil.
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

These are recommendations and suggestions, personalize your kits to your special needs. 

 Being safe and warm during the winter months is vital both in your home and car!