The Perfect Winter Car Emergency Kit

Cold weather driving safety starts with the perfect winter emergency kit and any of us who have been stuck out in the cold knows how true a statement that is. Find out what to put in your perfect winter car emergency kit.

(NC)—One of the easiest things to help prepare for winter driving is to create a winter emergency kit and store it in your vehicle. It's always a good idea to be prepared in case of emergencies, big or small. While you don't have to keep an entire garage in your vehicle, it's smart to keep the basics on hand in case something should happen.

Put together the most complete emergency kit possible. From battery jumper cables to a properly inflated spare tire, below are a few additional thoughts to keep in mind when packing your winter emergency kit.

Communication:

The easiest way to get help is to call for assistance. Whether that is your local police station, a tow truck or your friends/family. Make sure someone knows where you are and the situation.

• Cell phone

• Cell phone charger

• GPS/Map

First Aid Kit Essentials:

Making sure you and your passengers are safe is the number one priority. Make sure to keep these items on hand while waiting for assistance to arrive.

• Blanket, pair of gloves, hat, boots

• Band Aids

• Water bottles and granola bars

Winter Weather Beaters:

Frustration and time can often be saved with the items below. Keep these items on-hand and you can get yourself out of many winter messes.

• Shovel

• Small bag of sand or kitty litter (helps the tires grip on ice or slush)

• Snow brush and ice scraper

Make Sure To Stay Visible:

You don't want to become a hazard for other drivers still on the road. Make sure other vehicles can see you.

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• Road flares or caution triangles

In addition to the items above, the number one items you should have on your car are winter tires. Winter tires help provide enhanced traction and optimize performance in some of the most severe winter weather conditions. Count yourself lucky if you don't have to dig into your winter emergency kit this season, but knowing it's there will make you feel safer on the road. And you never know when you might need to lend a helping hand. More tips on winter driving can be found online at www.goodyear.ca.