When disaster strikes, you want to be in the best position possible in order to make it home safely. In the winter months, one of the most common, yet hazardous scenarios that can occur is a breakdown on the highway. While winter tires and regular maintenance of your vehicle can help prevent such incidents, it is always wise to carry an emergency car breakdown kit.
What to Include in a Breakdown Kit
Your roadside emergency kit should start with bandages and a basic first aid kit that will be used in case of an injury from a collision or accident. There are some good first aid kits available online - read the reviews and purchase the most complete kit you can find.
Warm clothes, extra boots, and blankets are a must have in the winter in the event that you need to stay in your vehicle for extended periods of time. A flashlight with spare batteries and a cone or reflective triangle to alert passersby of your presence can also come in handy when you are stranded.
For supplies specific to your vehicle, it is always wise to have a spare tire, lug wrench and a jack to change a flat tire. Winter supplies should include an ice scraper, de-icer, small snow shovel and a small rug or cat litter to help with traction if you get stuck. Jumper cables are a must-have and a portable battery charger can be a lifesaver if you need to revive your dead battery on the side of the road.
Many of these items can be found at auto parts stores, where they also sell pre-made emergency supply kits. Another excellent resource to have on hand is non-perishable food and sealed water, in case you have to spend more time than anticipated in your vehicle. Last, but not least, always keep a cell phone charger in your vehicle, as contacting help while you deal with winter weather is essential to your survival.
