Accessory: Winter weather emergency kit.
Cost: $40 or more pre-assembled.
Even with veteran winter-driving skills, you can't control the weather. One of the most crucial steps for this season is piecing together a winter-weather emergency kit.
Pre-assembled kits are available, but you can buy individual accessories, depending on your needs. Calkins recommends these essentials:
- Cloth or paper towels.
- Booster cables.
- Flares or reflective triangles.
- First-aid kit.
- Small shovel.
- Ice scraper and snow brush.
- Cell phone.
- Tire chains.
- Pair of gloves.
- Some type of traction aid such as sand or Kitty Litter.
- Basic hand tools (screwdriver, hammer and a pair of pliers).
Calkins advises drivers who live in rural areas to carry additional items such as nonperishable food, bottled water, extra clothes and a blanket. In the event of a worst-case scenario, these items are essential.
The better you prepare for this winter, the warmer and safer you'll be.