It’s NOT Just Junk in Your Trunk
You’re no stranger to Midwest Winters but are you truly prepared for the worst? We’ve all heard the recent news about drivers stranded on the highway for 24+ hours out East. If that happened on 39 or I90, would you have what you really needed? Read on to see what you should have and why. Fingers-crossed you’ll never need it but being prepared can literally save a life when Midwest Winters take their toll.
Lighting: Let’s face it. We tend to rely on our phones for everything these days. Even light. But if you’re stuck on the road, stretching your battery life is crucial. For both your phone AND your vehicle! Make sure you have a flashlight at the ready. Nowadays a small handheld flashlight goes a long way. Make sure it’s old school and by that I mean uses real batteries. The last thing you want is something else that needs to be charged. It goes without saying but we will anyway, make sure you have a few extra batteries just in case!
First-Aid Kit: I’m not saying you should have a traveling hospital at the ready but essentials can come in handy. Especially if you’re stranded somewhere and first-responders can’t get to you.
- Band-Aids for cuts
- Gauze pads for treating wounds
- Safety pins for closing bandages
- Adhesive tape
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antihistamine for allergic reactions
- Antiseptic wipes to sanitize your hands
- Aspirin, Ibuprofen, or other pain relieving medication
- Aloe Vera to treat mild burns
- Cotton balls
- Tweezers
- Medical scissors without a pointy edge are used for cutting clothing away from an injury
- Hand sanitizer
- Saline solution for eye washing or cleaning wounds
- Medical latex or vinyl gloves
- CPR mask
Warmth: Relying on your vehicle’s heater is all well and good while you’re commuting but what if you’re stuck on the road or in a ditch? In sub-zero temps staying in your vehicle for shelter is your best bet. Stashing some blankets, an extra pair of boots, and hats/gloves is ideal. You can’t go wrong with keeping a few candles and a lighter handy as well. They provide heat and can be used for grabbing the attention of a passing vehicle.
Food: Nourishment. Eating doesn’t just keep you from getting cranky, which your passengers will appreciate by the way. Nutrients found in snacks like trail mix, nuts or jerky will help you maintain your energy and keep you warm. Other items that are easy to travel with include instant oatmeal, dried fruits, and peanut butter. Warm drinks go a long way too! Tea bags, instant coffee, and hot chocolate will both warm and soothe you in an emergency. Stash some snacks in a small cooler bag, you’ll be glad you did!
Water: It’s crucial for multiple reasons which is why it gets it’s own bullet point! You’ll need it for first aid and hydration. I know keeping a couple cases of water isn’t realistic but a few bottles will get you started. Consider keeping a metal bowl or can in the vehicle too. If you’re stranded in the winter you can always melt snow!
Being prepared for the unexpected makes all the difference. It’s the little things, like keeping your phone in your pocket and NOT in the cup holder, that can save the day. We never PLAN to get stranded but if you’re hitting the road you should be prepared for it. Don’t forget you can always schedule a service appointment HERE to make sure your car, truck, or SUV is ready to tackle what winter throws at it. Drive safely and stay warm out there!
Connect with us
