Though winter is nearly a month away, Mother Nature has presented us with cold temperatures, ice and even snow early this year.
Early snow and ice can take us by surprise, leading us to wonder, “Where, exactly, did I put my ice scraper? Is it under the still-sandy beach blanket from the summer?”
It’s worth taking a few minutes to locate all your winter items and determine if there’s anything else you might need for warmth and safety in your vehicle during the winter.
While everyone’s winter car kit varies (some include snacks!), there are some basic items that every car should have.
If you don’t have one, or if last years didn’t hold up (cheap ice scrapers are prone to easy breakage), be sure to purchase a new one. A good snow brush is vital, too, in case that “dusting of snow” the weather forecasters predict turns into several inches.
With bad weather coming, there is always a chance of being stranded in a cold vehicle. Having blankets is a good idea. Even if you’re dressed warmly for the weather, a cold car can leach the body heat out of you quickly. You may even want to add some chemical hand and foot warmers to the kit.
If you live in a very snowy area, this is a must-have. There may be times when you need to dig your car out of a snowbank or a heavy snowfall, and the lack of a shovel could ruin your whole day. Folding shovels don’t take up a lot of space, and can be very effective.
It’s a good idea to keep a flashlight or two in your vehicle at all times. Before the onset of winter, ensure it has fresh batteries.
When roads get icy, even the most robust vehicles can let you down. Rather than risk getting stuck with your tires spinning, keep something you spread around the tires for traction. If you don’t have salt or sand, a bit of kitty litter can do the trick.
If you do get stuck in bad weather, you want to minimize the chances of another driver striking your vehicle. Road flares don’t take up much space, and they can save your hide during a storm or a breakdown.
Cold weather can be hard on batteries, so your chances of needing jumper cables go up in the winter. Ensure yours are easily reachable and in good working order.
Driving on sand- and mud-spattered roads can cause you to go through a lot of fluid, and running out is a disaster. Keep some wiper fluid in your vehicle at all times in the winter.
It’s worth taking your vehicle in for a look over by professionals before the cold, stormy weather hits. They can check your tires to ensure optimal pressure, top off your fluids and ensure everything is in good working order. At Tire Country of Enfield, we can ensure that your car, SUV or truck is ready for the winter. All automotive repair and mechanic services at Tire Country are performed by highly qualified mechanics, and we can put your vehicle into tip-top winter shape. Contact us for an appointment today at 860-763-0846 or via our web site.
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