Snow is falling and winter has arrived in the High Country! Whether you’re a Colorado native, new to town or just visiting, driving in the snow can be downright dangerous if you’re not prepared. It’s a good idea to make sure your vehicle is stocked and ready for the ice and snow. After or during a big storm, it’s not uncommon to run into unplowed roads, treacherous mountain passes and road closures. Would you be prepared to spend several hours or even the night in your car?
We’ve put together a list of “must haves” so you can start or update your vehicle emergency kit. For your convenience, we’ve included links to items you can find on Amazon.
Vehicle Emergency Kit
- Jumper cables (get the long ones)
- Flares or reflective road triangles
- Tire chains
- Tow strap
- Kitty litter (non-clumping kind)
- First aid kit
- Extra essential/prescription medications
- Heavy, warm blanket or sleeping bag
- Gallon jug of drinking water
- Non perishable food (granola bars, jerky, etc…)
- Extra set of warm clothes (coat, hat, gloves, boots, socks, etc…)
- Chemical hand warmers (i.e. Hot Hands)
- Good sturdy ice scraper w/ brush
- Flashlight w/ extra batteries (or a crank powered flashlight)
- Battery or crank powered radio
From automotive checklists to lists of essential items, CDOT also has some useful tips on winter driving. Check out their Winter Driving Preparedness information.
The holidays are here which means more people will be out on the roads. Brush up on your emergency plan, grab a box or trunk organizer and start your winter driving kit today. Amazon also has some great basic roadside kits available such as this one from First Secure, which would also make a great holiday gift! Be prepared and stay safe out there!
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