Winter is here and depending on your location, you could be facing winter’s wet and snowy roads. Because of these changes in weather it is more likely that you will be forced to pull over while driving due to a problem with your vehicle, or have to fix your tire on the side of the road. In this day and age, many people have memberships to companies like AAA that you can call and get roadside assistance from, but what happens when your cell phone has no service? At some point, it may just be just you and your vehicle, and you need to be prepared. When that day comes, we hope you will remember these helpful tips to ensure that you are safe on the roads this winter. Here is how to create your own emergency roadside kit.
See also: How to build your own emergency roadside kit
What Basics Should Your Roadside Kit Contain?
- – Jumper cables
- – Gloves
- – Flashlight with extra batteries
- – Road flares/reflective warning triangles
- – Tire perforation kit (for tire punctures)
- – Rags
- – ABC fire extinguisher
- – Multi tool
- – Towrope
- – Duct tape
- – Extra fuses
- – Non-perishable food
- – Bottled water
- – Solar blanket (it is lightweight but keeps heat inside)
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See also: End-of-the-Year Car Buying Tips
First Aid Kit:
- – Assorted Bandages
- – Gauze
- – Adhesive Tape
- – Scissors
- – Antiseptic
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Not every city in California has the same type of weather so if your weather conditions vary, keep reading because there a few extra items you may need to add to your kit.
See also: Tips for Driving Safely in the Rain
For Areas Where It Rains:
- – Hand warmers
- – Rain poncho
- – Umbrella
For Areas Where It Snows:
- – Tire chains
- – Ice scraper
- – Small shovel (to dig tires out of the snow)
- – Cat litter (if placed in the snow, it can help with the traction of the tires)
- [Information Source]
You cannot always control issues with your car or the weather but you can control how prepared you are. Make sure to pack a roadside safety kit that fits your needs. If you are heading to a location of different weather climates then adjust your kit to those conditions. It only takes a few minutes to check your car and kit but it could take hours to get help if you are unprepared. Take these tips with you everywhere you go, and safe travels this winter season!
