16 essentials to keep in your car emergency kit this winter, recommended by an expert
Winter driving can be dangerous — CAA recommends storing these 16 essentials in your vehicle emergency kit.
Severe winter weather is part of the package deal that comes with living in Canada. We're no strangers to snow, rain, ice and hail, so it's important to prepare your home and vehicle for harsh weather conditions.
For your home, a snow blower or thrower is a smart investment. It can cut your snow removal time in half and save your back from shovelling pains. Similarly, keeping your vehicle well-stocked with a winter emergency kit can be life-saving in the event of a snowstorm or treacherous road conditions.
CAA receives hundreds of requests for roadside assistance on an average winter day, and on extremely cold days, that number can easily triple as calls flood in for dead batteries. While heavy snow is one culprit for roadside assistance, subzero temperatures — days that are -25°C or colder or several consecutive days in the range of -20°C — majorly impact wait times. Dubbed situation "code red" by CAA, when the temperature drops below -20°C, it becomes a "dangerous situation with real risks," making your vehicle emergency kit all the more vital.
Even if you never expect to find yourself stuck on the side of the road, it's helpful to keep an emergency kit on hand should the worst happen. Below, Kristine D'Arbelles, the senior director of public affairs at CAA, shares her list of emergency kit essentials. From booster cables to a snow brush, here's what you should include in your winter driving emergency kit.
1. Flashlight (preferably crank-type)
Winter weather means early nightfall, so you'll want to add a flashlight to your list of car staples. D'Arbelles recommends a crank-type flashlight "because batteries don't last long in extreme cold."
2. Snow brush and ice scraper
Snow and ice are inevitable in the winter, so keeping a combination scraper and brush on hand is vital. In addition to your windshield, rearview mirrors, and windows, you'll also want to ensure that your car's roof is all clear of snow before hitting the road or risk getting hit with fines.
3. Shovel
A shovel is a must-have tool for any winter emergency kit. This collapsible shovel can extend up to 43", which will come in handy if you find yourself stuck in a snow bank or are buried in the driveway.
4. Bag of abrasive material like sand or kitty litter
D'Arbelles recommends keeping a bag of abrasive material in your vehicle, which will provide the extra grit that tires need to gain traction. She suggests using materials like sand and kitty litter in lieu of road salt, which can cause your vehicle to rust.
5. Windshield washer fluid
D'Arbelles recommends having "plenty of windshield washer fluid" in your vehicle for when inclement weather strikes. This four-pack of washer fluid protects against ice on your windshield to quickly restore visibility.
6. Booster cables
Not only are jumper cables an invaluable item to keep on hand in case your car battery dies, but they're also helpful if you encounter another motorist in a sticky situation. Whether you accidentally left your lights on or cold weather drained your battery, they're the quickest way to bring your car back to life.
7. Small tool kit
To be prepared for anything, D'Arbelles recommends stocking your roadside emergency kit with any essential tools you may need in a pinch, including screwdriver, pliers and a socket wrench.
8. Warm blanket
If you find yourself stuck in your car during a winter storm, experts recommend staying calm and not going out in the cold. Staying in your car will help you avoid getting lost, and your car is a safe shelter that can be made even more protective by being well-stocked with blankets and warm clothing.
9. Extra socks, boots and gloves
Alongside storing a wool or similar heavy blanket in your vehicle, D'Arbelles recommends keeping extra pairs of heavyweight socks, boots and gloves in your trunk. These will come in handy if you did not happen to dress for the weather — it happens!
10. Hand and foot warmers
Nothing can save the day quite like a hand or foot warmer when you're ill-prepared in freezing weather. These air-activated warmers offer quick and long-lasting heat. Each variety pack contains five pairs of Hand Warmers, five Body & Hand Super Warmers, and three pairs of Toe Warmers.
11. Nonperishable food items and water
Since you never know how long you may have to wait things out in your car, keeping a stash of long-lasting non-perishables like granola bars is recommended by CAA. You'll also want to pack bottles of water or Gatorade.
What to include in your vehicle's emergency kit
In addition to the items listed above, CAA recommends including the following in your car emergency kit:
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