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Sure, you may have your new Winter coat, gloves and that oh-so-cute hat to keep you warm, but what about your car? Does it have everything necessary to keep you safe if a freak snow storm came to town? Read on and find out how to Winterize your car for the chilly months ahead.
First off, before you even get in your car to travel during the Winter months, listen to the news or radio to be sure bad weather is not headed in your direction. Know the difference between a "weather watch" and a "weather warning."
A "watch" means bad weather could be headed for your area. It's best to be aware of the weather and don't drive if you don't have to.
A "warning" means a Winter storm is on its way. You should not, unless in an emergency, drive your car.
When winter is knocking at your door, it's crucial to prepare your car. It's best to have your car "Winterized" by a mechanic. Be sure the mechanic checks the basics such as your brakes, your cooling system, exhaust and oil filter. In addition, have him or her check your heater, defrost and your windshield wipers. If you live in an especially snowy or hilly area, have snow tires installed.
Once your car is properly outfitted, you'll need to stock essential items to help you out of a winter jamb.
Stock your car with:
Cell phone
Windshield scraper
Mini-shovel
Flashlight
Jumper cables
Flares or reflective tape
Kitty litter or sand (for traction under your tires, should you get stuck)
First Aid kit
Blanket
This list may sound extensive, but if you become trapped in your car during a snow storm, you'll wish you had these items and more!
When you're ready to drive, if your car has been parked outside, check the exhaust pipe for snow. If it is packed with snow or ice, carbon monoxide could filter into your car, potentially causing death.
If you're driving and it starts snowing heavily to where you can't see, STOP. Pull over to a safe area such as a shoulder or side road and wait it out. Don't continue driving or you could become a hazard to yourself and to others.
If your car breaks down during the Winter, the danger is more serious than you may realize. The risks of frostbite, hypothermia and even death are real.
If you do happen to get stuck in the snow on a quiet road, stay with your car. It is NOT best to go traipsing off to look for help. It's too easy to become lost and disoriented in snow storms.
Cell phone reception isn't always reliable, so if you're stuck without a signal, don't panic. Use your supplies from your car to keep you situated until help comes. Turn your car on every hour for about ten minutes, to keep you warm.
If you're able to get your car door open, set off a flare or attach reflective tape to visible parts of your car.
If help hasn't reached you in a few hours, you may want to put the kitty litter or sand to good use. Dump bits of snow behind your tires or try placing your foot mats directly behind or in front of your tires, depending on the direction you need to go. The mats or gravel will give your car traction on the slippery snow and may be able to get you back on the road.
If you're sure you won't be able to get your car out of the snow, just wait it out. Stay in your car, well covered with a blanket or coat. Dip any type of container into clean snow and let it melt into water inside your car.
Don't let yourself be overcome with terror. Stay calm and relaxed. You WILL be found. Remember our safety tips for winter driving and if you like, print out this article or another like it and stick it in your glove box. You'll never be too prepared for Winter weather.
- Jessica Burkhart, Associate Editor
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