Saftey On Winter Roads

              More people head out onto the roads at this time of year. The Hustle and Bustle of the season has people driving more to do their shopping, visiting, and holiday travelling. Being out on the roads in the winter means the potential for unexpected situations to arise. It’s a good idea to have a few things on hand just in case.
             In order to know what you should have stocked in your vehicle, you have to know your destination. If you are cruising around town to run errands or pop by friends houses for Christmas socializing, than you will need to prepare differently than someone headed out to the cabin for an old fashioned Christmas experience. Also, keep in mind if you are headed out of town -  Are you going to be doing mostly highway driving or will there be a few back roads in your travels?
            The modern age has ensured most of us are equipped with a cell phone; this is a very useful tool to have when travelling. Of course access to a phone is important to call for help, but they can also offer more. Smart phones nowadays are also equipped with all kinds of apps to assist with emergencies. Plus, most phones have built in cameras which are handy in an accident. Before heading out, download some apps to help, for example, a G.P.S. navigation system and a flashlight. If you don’t have a smart phone with these features then it is important to obtain them, especially if you are headed out of town.  Remember a cell phone can only be helpful if the battery is charged.
            Roadside Emergency Kits are available for sale or you can create your own.  It’s a good idea to keep a kit stocked in your vehicle throughout the winter driving months. There is a great blog done by Consumer Reports that lists important items to bring. You can visit their blog at:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/03/roadside-emergency-kit-what-to-carry-with-you/index.htm

                There are a variety of situations that could come up; these items may come in handy. As mentioned in the Consumer Report's Blog: "You want to be able to get help, signal your car’s presence, and tackle simple challenges."  Having these will also keep you comfortable while you are waiting for help to arrive. Keep these items in the interior of your car; you may not be able to get access to your trunk if you have gone off the road.

                It is also important to know your vehicle. Do you have a spare tire? If so, where is it located and how do you get access to it if needed? If there is a spare check to make sure the proper tools for a tire change are on board with you, some vehicles have hidden compartments that store these items. I had no idea that I had a compartment with a jack that also doubled as a tire iron until my brother showed me. It’s a good idea to ask someone who is knowledgeable about vehicles for help. You can also contact your dealership for help to locate these items.           

               Remember to dress for the weather. Even if you are only going a few blocks it is important for you to have the appropriate outerwear for the conditions. Ladies, I know it can be a pain to wear boots with your party dress but it’s better than standing in a snow bank in heels. Even if you don’t wear those boots, make sure they are in the vehicle with you, just in case. Having extra winter clothes on hand is a good idea: toques, mittens, scarves, etc.

              If there is a possibility that you could be stuck somewhere waiting for help to arrive you will want to be prepared. Bring along some snacks and water to set aside just in case. It’s also a good idea to have some cash in case you are in a rural area, sometimes Credit Cards and Debit just aren’t an option.

              You never know what will be thrown your way when you are out on winter roads. There are a number of things that can take you by surprise, be ready. It may seem pointless to carry extra things around with you, but if you stock your vehicle ahead of time and have things ready you won’t regret it. These things can make a tough situation better for you and the people you are travelling with.  Remember to think about your destination and pack accordingly and always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to arrive. The more prepared you are the better you will feel about going out and enjoying the Holidays.

-Muriel Rolufs