Winter Weather Car Checklist to Help Ensure Safety

Preparing for winter weather emergencies is something most people do for their home, but many do not think to prepare their vehicles for similar emergencies. Having the necessary supplies in the event your car is stranded or involved in an accident is vital to help ensure your safety.

According the National Weather Services, 50% of winter-related injuries happen in vehicles and almost 6,000 people each year are killed in winter weather travel accidents. If you are stranded for a prolonged period of time due to severe cold weather events, having a few supplies on hand will help you remain safe while waiting for help to arrive.

Aside from always ensuring that your vehicle has plenty of gas and the fluids are in check, having these items could save your life or the life of another stranded motorist.

Travel Auto Checklist

The items on this checklist are a few basic necessities that should be taken care of, no matter the weather.  However, they are especially important during the colder weather months.

  • Ensure your wiper fluid is full
  • Check your lights including headlamps, fog lights, low lights and high beams to ensure they are in proper working order
  • Check your coolant levels
  • Check your battery
  • Replace worn wiper blades
  • Inspect your tires and check tire pressure
  • Check your oil
  • Check all belts and hoses

If you are unsure of how to check some of the items on this list yourself, you’re in luck!  Many auto stores and mechanic shops will check them for you, free of charge. AutoZone, O’Reilly, Pep Boys, Tires Plus and many more offer free services that can help make sure your travels stay safe.

Winter Weather Emergency Tool Kit

The good news about the items in this list is that you probably already have a few of them on hand!

  • Mobile device charger/extra batteries
  • Blankets/heavy additional clothing
  • Flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Non-perishable, high calorie food and clean drinking water
  • Jumper cables, toolkit, and tow ropes
  • Ice scraper, snow shovel, and a knife
  • Compass and physical road map of the area

By having this basic set of items in your vehicle, you should be well prepared if you have to travel when winter weather hits the hardest.