2 of 28

Write now Article Tools

Since winter is right around the corner, now is the time to prepare your car any weather situation you may have to confront. It's best to prepare your survival kit long before you will need it because that way, you will have the chance to add any additional items you may discover you need. When you assemble your survival kit, be sure you are prepared in case you get stranded.

Here is a look at some of the items you should have in your survival kit whenever you are driving around anywhere during the worst months of winter.

*Blankets -

Blankets are essential because you will need to rely on them to keep you warm. You can't keep the car running because you'll run out of gas and run the battery down quickly. Blankets will keep you warm in the interim as long as you are wearing warm winter clothing.

*Extra warm clothing -

Pack some extra long underwear, warm socks, gloves and other warm clothing. That way, you won't have to sit around in wet clothing and risk getting quite sick. Make sure you have a hat and warm boots as well.

*Non-perishable food -

If you get stranded, you will need some sort of food. Pack granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, and high protein foods that will give you energy and help you stay warm.

*Water -

You never know how long you will be stranded. Water is essential. You may be able to survive without food for a while, but you can't survive without water for very long. Keep several gallons of water in your car.

*Flares -

You can use flares to signal for help. If you get stranded, those flares will alert other drivers to the fact that you are there, and that can potentially avert an accident. By using flares, law enforcement officers who are driving around will see them and will come to see if you need assistance.

*Sand and kitty litter -

Sand and kitty litter can provide traction that you will need to move your car should you get stuck. Sand or kitty litter will also add weight to your car, and this can prevent you from skidding on icy roads.

*Tire chains -

If the weather is really terrible, putting tire chains on your wheels can provide the tires with some increased traction. If you don't have special all weather or snow tires, chains can be very helpful. For people who drive in mountainous areas, the chains can be indispensable because they may determine whether or not you can actually get up or down the hill.

*A snow shovel -

If you get stuck someplace in a heavy snow storm, a shovel will help you dig yourself out. You will be able to shovel the area around the car to clear it so you can at least move out of the position you were in.

*Window scraper and brush -

A window scraper with brush is something every car should have at all times in winter. You never know whether you will need it when you come to get your car after work, after you come out of the grocery store, or if you get stranded.

*Jumper cables -

Jumper cables are another must have. If your battery dies or won't start, the jumper cables will allow a passerby to jump your car. If you are at home, a neighbor might be able to jump you and this will save you the cost of having to call AAA or some other car service company.

These are some of the most essential items you will need for a winter car survival kit. Whenever you are out driving in areas where winters are harsh, the conditions can change very quickly and you never know whether you will stranded. A blizzard can close off a major Interstate. Knowing what to keep in your survival kit and planning accordingly will give you greater peace because no matter what the weather throws at you, you will be able to survive until you can get help of get out of wherever you are.

Learn more about this author, Theresa Rose.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Essential items for winter survival car kit?
We want to hear your view. Write now!