Emergency Preparedness Guide: What to Keep in Your Car
Even the most careful drivers can run into unexpected problems on the road. Being prepared to handle unexpected situations can make all the difference between life and death sometimes.
Whether it’s winter or not, driving can be a dangerous business. But winter makes things especially dangerous thanks to slippery conditions, reduced visibility, and of course the general discomfort and misery of the cold.
Emergency preparedness is a must for anyone driving. Here’s what you should keep in your car:
Folding shovel
This is Canada. Sometimes it snows. Sometimes it snows A LOT. It would be nice if we could just barricade ourselves in a blanket fort on those days. Unfortunately, life doesn’t stand still for most of us just because the sky is determined to bury the world in snow. When it’s really coming down out there, don’t be surprised if you find your car somewhat buried at the end of the work day -- or maybe you get stuck in a particularly deep section of the stuff while on the road. There are all sorts of tricks for getting a car unstuck in the snow, but nothing makes it quite so simple and effective as having a shovel.
Shovel alternatives
If there’s ice under your wheels and you don’t have a shovel to break it up, you’ll need an alternative. A common one is to use salt. Sand or cat litter provide traction, allowing your tires to find purchase on slick ground. There are also traction aids you can buy that may be just as or more effective than the litter.
Blankets
If you’re caught in a blizzard -- or even just a storm that severely impacts visibility -- you may have to pull over to the side of the road and wait things out. You don’t want to leave your engine or battery running while you wait, so say goodbye to the car’s heater for now. Wrap yourself up in some blankets and stay warm. You can buy emergency preparedness blankets designed to reflect heat back to you. These are often smaller and easier to store, while still being effective.
Don’t take a nap, though. Stay awake and try to keep your blood properly circulating as much as you can.
Heat and light
A flashlight is a great idea. If it’s dark outside you want a backup light source. Make sure to regularly check the batteries. There are also crank flashlights that don’t require batteries. Having a candle or lantern and matches can even provide some extra heat.
Road flares or warning light
If you get stuck in the road, you’re in danger of being hit by a passing vehicle, especially if visibility is down. Having road flares can keep your vehicle out of harm’s way as well as make it much easier for a potential rescuer to find you.
Food and water
There’s no doubt that you don’t want to risk being stuck somewhere only to die of dehydration or starvation. Keep some dry, non-perishable food like energy bars or dried fruits. Canned meat and vegetables are great emergency foods to keep around as well but leaving them in your car during winter will likely freeze them, so dry is best. When it comes to water keep it in bottles that are unlikely to freeze or burst
Jumper cables
Jumper cables are standard when it comes to emergency preparedness. Have these handy, just in case you need someone to give you a jump (or just in case you need to help someone else).
First Aid kit
You definitely don’t want to forget the First Aid kit. Periodically check to make sure it has everything a good kit needs. When you use something, be sure to replace it as soon as possible.
Emergency preparedness can save your life, and the lives of your loved ones. Hopefully you won’t need any of the items, but they are good to have on hand – just in case.