The Importance of a Proper Winter Emergency Kit
No matter where you’re driving in the winter months, it’s important that you’re prepared. Getting stuck in a ditch in the middle of nowhere or in the city may require some gear to help you stay safe, which is why every driver should have a winter emergency kit.
A winter emergency kit has the basics you need to stay warm, stay safe and help you get out of trouble on the road. Today, we’re looking at the top items you should have in your winter emergency kit. Before we get started, it’s important to note that there are many pre-made emergency kits available. These are usually a great starting point, but you will probably need to supplement them with other available items.
Winter Emergency Kit Essentials
Here’s what you’ll need in your winter emergency kit:
- Clothing and blankets: It can get cold waiting for assistance. Make sure you have blankets, toques, mittens, socks and other warm clothing to stay warm.
- Shovel: A small shovel may be invaluable in getting you out of a ditch or helping you get some much-needed traction when caught in snow.
- Water and food: Stock up on non-perishable goods like granola bars just in case you need some nourishment while you deal with the emergency.
- Road flares or reflective safety triangles: Winter driving means driving in the dark more often. Staying safe in the dark means you have to be visible with road flares and reflective equipment.
- Flashlight and extra batteries: In the same vein as flares, a flashlight is essential to help you stay visible and inspect any situation.
- First aid kit: An absolute must. While we hope not to be injured, things happen. A first aid kit will help you stay safe if something bad happens.
Extra Resources for Winter Driving
The Government of Canada has a great resource page for more information on winter driving. It’s a great resource for anyone wanting to brave the snowy roads this season, including driving tips and more.
The Canadian Automotive Association has a winter driving tips page packed with useful information, including driving instructions, things to consider before hitting the road and what to do in an emergency.
Whether you never leave the paved roads of the city or are driving on abandoned rural highways, it’s important to be prepared for winter driving with an emergency kit. With one filled with the items in this article, you’ll be better equipped in the case of an emergency in the colder months.
This story was made possible by our Community Partners Program. Thank you Davis Chevrolet for helping to expand local news coverage in Alberta. Learn more
