Building a winter emergency car kit is essential to face any possible danger over icy roads. Keep reading this post by Synthetic Solutions in Zebulon to find out what you need to prepare this kit.
For many, winter means snow-covered landscapes, Christmas lights, holidays, and other wonderful things. Yet, for most drivers, winter can be a real challenge. And it's no wonder since driving on icy roads entails the loss of traction and limited visibility. That is why, as a car owner, you must equip your vehicle to deal with any emergency during winter. If you're interested in this topic, keep reading this post to find out what tools and supplies you need for your winter emergency car kit.
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But First, Take a Look at Your Vehicle
Preparing your vehicle is a preventative measure that'll complement the use of your winter emergency car kit. So, our first recommendation is to have your vehicle serviced before the onset of winter. If you plan to go on the road, inform the service technician so that they can check your car accordingly. Here are a few key checks you can't skip:
Start by checking if your tires have adequate tread depth and air pressure. Also, ask your mechanic how advisable it is to install winter tires.
Check your antifreeze formula to replace it if it has a high water percentage. Failure to do so could result in overlooking a mix with too much water for the entire winter. That could cause the antifreeze to solidify and expand due to the cold, thus causing damage to the radiator.
Requesting a battery test will help you keep your car powered throughout the winter. It's also a good idea to ensure the terminals are well-connected and corrosion-free.
Your driving visibility largely depends on your headlights. For this, check your car's lighting system before winter starts. That way, you'll be able to detect and repair problems such as poorly positioned headlights or blown bulbs in time.
If you want to build your kit in the safest way, get a fireproof and waterproof container in which you can store everything listed below. Also, it is recommended that you read the instructions for each item. Doing so will allow you to handle each tool correctly to get the most out of your emergency kit. Here are the things you will need:
Survival Supplies
Being hungry and thirsty on the road is something you should avoid at all costs. Thus, pack water, granola bars, chocolates, and other snacks in your kit.
Without essentials to keep you warm, your winter emergency car kit would not be complete. For that reason, don't forget to include thermal blankets, a hat, an extra pair of snow boots, and some gloves.
Having a first aid kit in the car will make a big difference if you get hurt or feel unwell during the trip. That being said, keep basic medications such as painkillers, band-aids, and gauze in the car.
Car Equipment
Cold temperatures can take a toll on battery performance. Moreover, the increased use of defrosters and heaters accelerates the battery's drainage. To avoid getting stranded with no power on the road, opt to carry jumper cables.
Another common problem associated with winter driving is the loss of grip over icy roads. You can face such risk by carrying traction devices such as snow chains, traction boards, or sand tubes.
Another key item for your kit is a shovel. After all, you never know when you'll need to dig your vehicle out of the snow.
Imagine you want to install your snow chains in the middle of a snowstorm or that you need to check your engine after dark. In such cases, carrying a rechargeable LED flashlight in your kit will help you see clearly.
Lastly, prepare a document holder with a copy of your driver's license, your car registration, and proof of car insurance. Having your car's important documents on hand will come in handy in case you get pulled over.
Building a winter emergency car kit is imperative to ensure safer trips over icy roads. Another effective way to improve your safety at the wheel is by giving your engine the most reliable synthetic oil change in Zebulon. For advice on what formulas suit your engine better, call Synthetic Solutions at (888) 450-2658. Click here to explore the entire AMSOIL catalog.