Think about something for a minute. It’s cold outside, and you wake up to find a layer of frozen snow on the car. You open the trunk to get a new snow brush, but it’s not there. Then you remember you broke it last winter and never replaced it. You use your arm to remove the snow from the car, but you’re late for work and only clear the windows. Suddenly, the snow from the roof gets onto the windshield and blocks your vision while driving. You can’t see clearly and then rear-end the car in front of you. Thankfully, you are not injured and there’s no major damage. But, you will have to wait for a tow truck to arrive. This is an instance where winter preparation is essential. Check out some of the items below you should always have in your vehicle during the winter months.
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Ice Scraper and Snow Brush
Aside from having a snow brush and an ice scraper, you also need to make sure that your car is clear of ice and snow before it gets too cold. These items can help keep the road visible while driving and prevent a possible crash.
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Shovel
A small shovel is good to have when you need to clear a path to drive. This would also be useful if you find yourself stuck in the snow and need to dig yourself out.
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Winter Clothing
If you find yourself needing to use the shovel and ice scraper, you will need to have some winter clothing on hand so you don’t freeze while using them. Have a pair of gloves and an extra jacket stored in your car.
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Emergency Reflectors or Flares
If you break down during a snowstorm or in the evening, having reflectors or flares on the outside of your car will help other vehicles see you when you’re stopped on the side of the road. This can help prevent an accident from occurring while you’re waiting for help.
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First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is also important to have in your car in case of an accident. It can help provide immediate medical attention to the victim until help arrives.
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Flashlight
When it gets dark outside, use a flashlight to find out what’s wrong with your car. Having this device will also make you more visible to other drivers.
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Tow Chain
You should always have a chain or rope to use when you get stuck in the snow. When you find someone with a vehicle to pull your vehicle out, this will be needed.
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Jumper Cables
Cold weather can affect a car’s battery. If it gets too cold, it can cause it to stop working. Having cables to get a jump start will help get your vehicle running again.
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Small Tool Kit
Having a small tool kit can help you perform simple repairs on minor issues. It can also help avoid waiting for help if you know how to fix your vehicle’s issues.
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Cell Phone Charger
Having a cell phone is important to have in case of an accident. Having a charger on hand will allow you to call for help even if you didn’t charge your phone before you left. Nothing is worse than being stranded and having no way to call for help.
These are just some of the essential items you should have in your car during the winter months. Many of them will help a stressful situation become a little less so. If you break down and need to get your car repaired, bring your car to us here at Michigan Auto and Tire. We can get your car running again or get it ready to take on the harsh winter months.
