(NC)-As temperatures plunge from cold to freezing, winter preparedness becomes all the more important. Long after winter's sweaters have been pulled from their summer hibernation, people remain woefully unprepared for vehicle emergencies.
While most people have jumper cables and maybe a blanket in their car, those that have had the misfortune of breaking down or spinning off the road on a frigid winter day know they should have thought ahead a bit more.
Prestone, having over 75 years of experience in helping people and their vehicles make it safely through winter, have identified a list of essentials that will help people through a roadside winter emergency.
These items include:
. A small, lightweight shovel
. Traction aid, such as a bag of sand or kitty litter
. A combination ice scraper and snow brush
. A winter formula windshield washer fluid or additive (Prestone De-Icer Concentrate can be added to the windshield washer fluid reservoir to boost ice removal.)
. Antifreeze (Prestone LongLife Premixed Antifreeze/Coolant in the "All Makes, All Models" formula is designed specifically for topping up, taking the guesswork out of filling up on the go.)
. A well-charged cell phone
. Extra hats, boots and gloves
. Blankets and/or sleeping bags
. Non-perishable, high-energy food items, such as energy bars or peanuts.
More tips on preparing your vehicle for winter, and easy installation videos are available online at www.Prestone.com.