If you were around last winter, you made it through bitter temperatures and biting wind chills just as bad as what we've got now. But just because you've survived previous winters doesn't mean you should just coast through this winter.
Take for example your car. Most of us feel comfortable in our vehicles. Let them warm up a few minutes and you're okay, even with the below-zero temperatures outside. A far cry from days gone by where non-fuel-injected engines were harder to start. While you'll probably make it to your destination with no problems, would you be safe if you had engine trouble?
Even if you have a cell phone to call a tow truck or mechanic, you may run out of warmth before they arrive. What then? With wind chills approaching -35 today and tonight, we've got to take a realistic look at the danger if you're traveling and break down.
Best idea is to have a safety kit in your car. Honestly, I have a blanket back there (mainly for the dogs) but in a pinch I could use that to stay warmer. But having a kit is a necessity in my opinion, moreso if you travel long distances or country roads for your commute.
So here's a checklist for what you'll need to stay safe.
1. Extra hats, scarves, mittens. If you need to shovel yourself out, you may get these things wet. They'll do little to keep you warm if they're wet. Have extras on hand.
2. A small first-aid kit. If you're clumsy like me, you may need this even after the weather warms up.
3. Hand-warmers. For just a couple bucks, these could be a lifesaver if you're stranded in your vehicle without heat.
4. Tea-light candles. Yes, these candles can give off enough heat to warm you up. Since they (and a small lighter) are so lightweight and small, they are a good thing to pack along.
5. Garden trowel. You probably have one of these hanging on a nail in the garage. Smaller is sometimes better out there...especially when you need to get the snow out from under your tires.
6. Energy bar and bottled water. These could sustain you in case you find yourself in a blizzard where it may take many hours before help can arrive.
7. Jumper cables. A no-brainer for Midwestern winters. Even if you don't know how to use it or it's intimidating, they will come in handy and in a lot of instances, the person in the other car may know how to use it. (You can also use your cell phone to learn more.)
8. Cell phone. Yes, keep that thing charged when you're heading out and make sure it's accessible.
9. Blankets/sleeping bag. If you're like me, you have a sleeping bag that's probably packed away in the closet. Throw that in the trunk.
10. Okay, I lied. There are 10 things. If you need help, the sound of a whistle will travel farther than your voice. And since you can pick one of these up at the dollar store, it should really be thrown in your bag.
And that's it! Simple things that will take up no more room than a suitcase. You may feel silly making a survival kit for a car you've driven a hundred thousand miles. But in that one instance, it may come in handy, and in that extreme case, save your life or someone around you.
I'd like to hear from you! What do you think I left off my list? Please e-mail me eric.sorensen@wqad.com and I'll put the additions below:
Many of you have mentioned carrying kitty litter. That will indeed offer some temporary traction to get you out of a bind. Good one, guys!