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My dad always says "Always be ready to walk a mile." I'll never forget that! Even if you're just running to the store, be prepared! Dress properly, and be ready for an emergency! Up here in the great white north, walking for help (or to fill up your gas can!) from the scene of a breakdown can sometimes be much more than a mile, so it is really essential to have necessary supplies.
Since we now have an infant, all of this is even more important. When the weather started getting colder, I put together this emergency kit for our primary vehicle and it really puts my mind at ease. Here's what we included:
For the Us & Baby
Wipes & Diapers - However foolish, I have been known to run out for a quick errand without my diaper bag. These would definitely come in handy if we were stranded on the side of the road.Extra Clothes, Hat & Mitts - God forbid we get wet in the case of an accident, or have to hike to safety, warm dry clothes are a must have.
Warm Blankets - Since it isn't safe for kids or babies to ride in the car in snow suits, these blankets will allow me to bundle her up if our car were to be wrecked or lose power.
Sleeping Bag - Keeping warm is essential in case of a winter emergency, and we can all snuggle up inside this cozy sleeping bag to help heat up.
Emergency Supplies
Coffee Can, Candles and Matches - Did you know you can heat your whole car with just this? In the case of an accident, you don't want to run your gas tank down just to heat the car. Check out this link for more detailed instructions.
Snacks - You never know how long you may be waiting for help, and especially in the cold you don't want your body running low on calories. Try for something that doesn't go bad, that has both protein and carbs. Energy bars or trail mix are a good choice.
Water - This one is a no-brainer! I almost always have water with me in the car anyways but a couple extra bottles could help keep you alive in an emergency.
First Aid Kit - While we can't be prepared for every possible injury, being prepared to tend to some small wounds while we wait for help is definitely a good. Band aids, antibiotic ointment, gauze, medical tape, alcohol wipes, medical scissors, and pain medication are a few of the basic things in our kit.
Cell Phone Charger - If your cell phone is dead, you can't call for help! These lipstick chargers are perfect for an emergency. Charge it up and toss it in the bag with a USB charger for all family members' cell phones.
Cat Litter - The cheap, non-clumping variety is perfect for creating traction under slipping, sliding wheels. Sand is also good for this, but kitty litter is a little easier to come by.
Shovel - In Northern Michigan, we can get 8" of snow in an hour - I've seen it happen! If you need to dig your vehicle out, you're going to want a shovel.
Flash Light - Nighttime driving is even more dangerous in the winter, and an extra light source is a great thing to have on hand.
Jumper Cables - I firmly believe everyone should have these in their car at all times! Be prepared to jump a dead battery! If you don't know how to do it, and you have a drivers license, you should learn!
Windshield Scraper - Most Northerners will already have a car brush and scraper in their cars. This is your best friend in the winter! We have these great mitten scrapers which are awesome for keeping warm.
Winter Driving Tips
Keep the Emergency Kit in the passenger compartment. Just in case the trunk is jammed, frozen, or crushed shut, at least the personal supplies (clothing, snacks, warmth supplies) should be accessible from the passenger compartment. That portion of our kit is in a bag under the center console.
Never let your gas tank get less than half full. You don't want to be running on E when you're in the middle of nowhere at 3*F. A tank of gas can buy you a few hours of heat which could save your life.
Buckle up, and strap in properly. Safety restraints are only good if used properly. Ensure that the seatbelt is fitted properly and buckled up. The shoulder strap goes across your shoulder, not under your arm! Children in car seats should be buckled as well as having their chest clip secured at armpit level. Children 2 and under should be in rear-facing car seats, installed correctly in the vehicle. Check out this awesome website for more info on getting everyone properly bucked up.
In case of a crash or break down, stay with your vehicle. Your best chance of being found or helped is staying with your car. Hiking out in a storm, especially at night, is incredibly dangerous. Stay put if at all possible.
Dress properly no matter how short your trip will be. If you're wearing heels, bring your boots. Always wear a proper coat, mittens or gloves, a hat, and scarf. Dress for the weather! Another thing my dad always says - There is no wrong weather, only wrong clothing. Be prepared for anything!
Don't go anywhere without your cell phone. That is your lifeline! It could help you send your coordinates and be found if you run off the road, or call 911 from the scene of a crash or breakdown.
But DON'T TEXT AND DRIVE! I am guilty of this but we all know texting and driving is incredibly dangerous. No text, Instagram, or Facebook post is that important. Distracted drivers are just as, if not more dangerous than drunk drivers. It can wait - your life is more important than your likes.
While we shouldn't be paralyzed by the fear of a car crash, we should be prepared to deal with it if the situation should arise. I hope this helps you feel more prepared for winter driving! Be safe out there as you travel for the holidays. Thanks for checking in!
