Winter Emergency Car Kit

Winter is in full force in Illinois, and it’s brought inclement weather and potentially hazardous road conditions all over the state. Therefore, it’s important that you have an emergency tool kit for your car, as well as some essentials like food and water, just in case you run into trouble on the Moline roads. The service team at Green Family Chevrolet has put together a guide outlining the best car emergency kit you should put together to stay safe throughout the winter months.

Winter Car Safety Kit

There are a few essential items you should have in your car at all times through the winter driving season, which can last anywhere from November to April or May. This includes an emergency tool kit for your car in case of an accident, but also items to help you if you get stranded or caught in hazardous weather. Here are the items that Green Family Chevrolet recommends you keep in your winter car safety kit:

• Battery cables
• Ice scraper
• Portable shovel
• Items to help when stranded: flashlight, warning signaling cones, backup batteries, safety vest, and roadside triangles
• Basic first-aid kit
• Cell phone charger
• Camera
• Flat tire kit
• Common winter items: gloves, blanket, rain poncho, rags, boots, socks, a hat. Pack anything to keep you warm if you get stranded during a snowstorm.

Essential Items for Long Road Trips This Winter

Winter is also often a time when drivers take road trips outside the Rock Island, such as travelling for the holidays or a ski weekend. If you plan on taking your car on the road this winter, there are a few more items you should make sure to have on hand before you start your trip:

• Tow strap: If your car runs off the road into a ditch, this tool is essential for another vehicle to pull it out. Your owner’s manual will give you details on how to properly use a tow strap.
• Fire extinguisher: Small fires can occur on the road from time to time, so it’s important to keep a fire extinguisher (designed for automotive use) inside the cabin.
• Long-lasting food and water: Always make sure you have long-lasting non-perishable food (such as granola and protein bars) and plenty of water before you leave.
• It’s always best to have some water and long-lasting food, especially on long trips. Granola, protein bars, and water can last in your vehicle for about six months before they need to be replaced.

If you do run into trouble on a road trip, such as getting stranded or running off the highway, it’s essential that you stay as close to your vehicle as possible. Do not leave your vehicle and go out on your own! This will make it much harder for emergency responders to find you. The best thing to do is stay inside your vehicle with your winter car safety kit.

Be Prepared for Winter With Green Family Chevrolet!

For more tips on how to stay safe on the road this winter, feel free to contact our office anytime! You can also stop by our dealership near Bettendorf, IA to get your vehicle inspected by a service expert so it’ll go through winter in top condition. If you’re interested in getting your car serviced, we have service specials updated all the time that are designed to help you save on your next appointment!