From black ice to blizzards, sub-zero temperatures to blowing snow, winter driving in Minnesota presents many hazards. Even if you’re a safe driver who normally avoids going out in bad weather, you never know when you’re going to hit an unexpected patch of ice that sends your car sliding off the road. Sometimes, the worst happens, and it’s always wise to be prepared.
If you’re a vehicle owner in Minnesota, you should always have a winter emergency kit stored in your car. This kit might just save your life if you find yourself stranded on a below-zero day. Here are a few key items to put in your vehicle’s winter emergency kit.
Important Items to Place in Your Car’s Winter Emergency Kit
- First Aid Kit – It’s good practice to keep a first aid kit in your car anyway, and it becomes all the more important in winter, when a slide off the road could result in injuries. Make sure your winter emergency kit has all the first aid essentials, like bandages, gauze, alcohol wipes and medical tape.
- Flashlight – If your vehicle becomes stranded at night, especially if it’s snowing, you’re not going to be able to see much and your phone’s flashlight might not cut it. Flashlights can be used to scan your surroundings, help you apply first aid, and flag down passing motorists if your car gets stranded during winter in Minnesota.
- Food & Water – Depending on where your car becomes stranded during the winter in Minnesota, you may be trapped for several hours or even overnight. Should this happen, it’s important to have a supply of water and non-perishable snacks in your winter emergency kit so that you can sustain yourself until you’re able to get your car back on the road or arrange for a rescue.
- Ice Scraper – Ice storms are one of the most treacherous hazards you can encounter while driving during winter in Minnesota. If your windshield ices up, either while you’re driving or while you’re stranded, you’ll want a trusted ice scraper to clear it up so you can get your car moving again as soon as it’s safe.
- Jumper Cables – Cold weather isn’t kind to car batteries. In the event that your car becomes inoperable during the winter due to a dead battery, it’s important that your winter emergency kit includes a set of jumper cables. That way, a friendly motorist will be able to help you get your car started again.
- Winter Clothes – Given just how obscenely cold a Minnesota winter can be, it’s vital that you always pack extra winter clothes in your emergency kit. Coats, gloves, hats and scarves should all be included. Blankets wouldn’t be a bad idea, either.
A Winter Vehicle Maintenance Shop You Can Trust
It’s always good practice to carry a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. It’s also good practice to receive winter maintenance services on your car to reduce the risk of finding yourself in a dangerous situation to begin with. Contact Arvu Auto today if you need any vehicle maintenance or repair services in the West Minneapolis metro!
