Take the “Emergency” Out of Roadside Emergencies

Keeping Warm

If you live in a blizzard-prone area, you definitely need to prepare you car for roadside emergencies. It is a good idea to keep blankets, extra coats, glove warmers, and boot warmers in your car during the winter months. If your car breaks down, you can’t rely on the heating system to provide warmth and letting your car idle during a snowstorm can be dangerous due to the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning.

The next time you are considering throwing an old coat out that you no longer wear, store it in the trunk of your car for roadside emergencies. When you are broken down in below-freezing weather, making a fashion statement will be the least of your concerns. Boot warmers and glove warmers can also be a great source of warmth when waiting in the cold. You can usually get them at the local hardware or grocery stores for relatively inexpensively.

Flashlights

It is also a good idea to keep flashlights and extra batteries in your car. If you are stranded on a road alone, a flashlight might be your only means of light during the nighttime and it can also work as a beacon to grab the attention of drivers passing by.

Food and Water

It is also helpful to keep a few boxes of granola bars or other nonperishable foods in your car such as crackers. Don’t forget to keep some bottled water on hand too. If you are stuck outside for several hours or more, you will likely get thirsty and if you’re stranded for days, it may actually save your life.

Follow the above tips and if your car breaks down or you become trapped in a snow bank, you can rest assured that you will have what you need until help arrives. The key to dealing with roadside emergencies is in how well you prepare for them.