As the winter weather rolls into Wisconsin, it’s time to start preparing for the long months ahead. One of the things you should put on your winter to-do list is assembling an emergency kit for your car. No one wants to think of getting stuck in their car, but it is a possibility in the winter with unpredictable weather and road conditions. Here are some items you should consider putting in your car’s emergency kit:
Important supplies:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Shovel
- Snow brush/ice scraper
- First aid kit
- Phone charger
- Lock thaw
- First aid kit
Supplies to keep you warm and comfortable:
- Extra winter clothes (a change of clothes in case yours get wet. An extra pair of gloves, hat, and scarf are also wise to add.)
- Blankets
- Nonperishable food (high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or granola bars)
- Drinking water
Other things to add to your checklist:
- Place a bin of cat litter, salt, or sand in your trunk before the winter weather starts. This will help weigh down your car and provide your tires with extra traction.
- Flares or emergency lights and jumper cables might be useful supplies to add to your kit.
- Run through a list of winter maintenance tasks for your car. This includes making sure your tires are in good shape for winter driving.
- At the end and beginning of each winter season, go through your emergency kit to replace any expired items.
Hopefully, you won’t ever need to utilize this winter emergency kit, but it’s better to be prepared. For other tips on staying safe in Wisconsin winters, contact your local Rural Mutual insurance agent.
