After a dear elderly friend got frostbite after she was stranded on a highway in her car due to an accident that stopped traffic for hours during a snowstorm, I learned some items that every car should have during the winter. They are a large tin can and substantial candle and matches to maintain warmth for longer periods of time.
Since it is recommended that you don't leave the car idling for long, instead turn off the car and light the candle and place it in the can and hold it. It will keep you and your hands warm while waiting. It is also recommended that you open your window a crack every once in a while. A spare blanket, heavy warm gloves, water and some healthier snack foods (bag of nuts, granola bar, etc) should be included in your kit.
It is also recommended that if you are ever in one of these situations (and for most accidents), you should not get out of your car. More people are hit by other drivers during these snow and multiple pile up type of events than if they just stayed in their cars.
Add your voice! Click below to comment. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
Excellent reminder! Thank you.
Should we also include flares (emergency highway markers) so other cars can see us? How about a cell 'phone (even if we don't use them, having one for emergencies could be a good idea)? A shovel? Extra warm, thick socks?
I live in western Canada where we can drive for hours and not see another soul. Being prepared for any contingency is a big part of being safe.
Cheers,
Rose Anne
Absolutely, if you are stranded alone on a lone road. This hint was for a pile up situation where one is confined to the vehicle for safety's sake. Naturally we do carry all these things mentioned in our trunk. Thanks
It might be better if the smaller items (all but the shovel) were kept in a box in the floor of the back seat. If you are making a trip alone in cold weather it might be more feasible to put the box in the passenger side floor of the front seat.
I keep a metal can with candles and matches in my car in case I am stuck in cold weather. Lighting a candle inside the can will keep the car warm enough that you won't freeze.
Add your voice! Click below to comment. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
