Do You Have A Winter Survival Kit In Your Car?
(Video: The Home Depot via YouTube)
Winter is no joke. And in Michigan especially. Our weather is very fickle. It can go from being a pretty mild and tame situation to a severe ice storm in a matter of hours (sometimes minutes). From cloudy to flurries to white squall, a blizzard can develop at a moments notice. And we can go from rain to a power line crippling ice storm in a day as well. So, we've compiled a couple of videos and tips for things you might want to have on-hand in case there's a Michigan winter emergency.
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15 Items to Put in Your Winter Driving Safety Kit
And you don't have to go broke putting this together. However, here's something else to consider. You don't want to be stuck in the cold and have to rely on cheap dollar store versions of stuff you need to possibly save you life.
1. Sturdy ice scraper and snow brush.
2. Shovel. (Foldable/collapsable)
3. Gloves and other winter clothing. (Hand warmers too)
4. Blanket.
5. Emergency flares or reflectors.
6. Rock salt, sand, or kitty litter.
7. First aid kit.
8. Extra windshield washer fluid.
9. Flashlight.
10. Rope or chain.
11. Jumper cables.
12. Small tool kit.
13. Sunglasses.
14. Cell phone charger.
15. Water and non-perishable snacks.
Honorable mentions include air compressor, spare tire (newer model cars don't come with them), gas tank, & external battery for jumping your car.
Note: these are all essential things to keep in your car during winter, but before you even hit the road, make sure you have gas and good wiper blades. Always keep a half-full tank of gas in your car during winter months and check that your wiper blades are in working order. Check your washer fluid often as well. You may also want to look into getting snow tires. (Source Credit: PA Legal Advice)
Most places like your local big box auto shops and Amazon sell severe winter auto emergency kits and most are in the $30 - $50 range. That's a great place to start.