Over the river and through the woods to grandmother's house we go! During the holiday season, people throughout the country hit the road to visit their loved ones. As we all know, the weather in Virginia and surrounding states can be very unpredictable. Winter storms and cold weather can quickly cause roads to become slick and icy. It's best to use extreme caution when venturing onto the roads. To be prepared for the unexpected, we recommend you keep the following 10 items in your vehicle throughout the winter months:
1) A snowbrush / ice scraper
2) Blanket
3) Jumper cables
4) Bottled water (also consider adding nonperishable high-energy foods such as granola bars, raisins, and peanut butter)
5) Flares & a flashlight with backup batteries
6) First-aid kit
7) Shovel
8) Tire repair kit and pump
9) Spare tire
10) Old winter boots, jacket, and clothes for the trunk
2) Blanket
3) Jumper cables
4) Bottled water (also consider adding nonperishable high-energy foods such as granola bars, raisins, and peanut butter)
5) Flares & a flashlight with backup batteries
6) First-aid kit
7) Shovel
8) Tire repair kit and pump
9) Spare tire
10) Old winter boots, jacket, and clothes for the trunk
It is wonderful to take a road trip for that much needed quality time with your loved ones. Wiygul Automotive Clinic cares about your safety and wants to be sure you arrive to your destination safely. Here are some winter driving tips:
- If you get stuck on an icy patch, take the mats out of your car, place them next to the tires, and slowly inch the car onto and over the mats.
- To prevent ice and snow from sticking onto your windshield, gently rub a small, moistened, cloth bag of iodized salt on the outside of your windshield
- You can fog-proof your mirrors and the inside of your windshields with shaving cream. Spray and wipe it off with paper towels.
- Try to drive during daylight hours
- Let your family know when you are leaving and when you expect to arrive at your destination
- If a snowstorm causes unsafe driving conditions, pull off the highway and turn on your hazard lights. If you have a distress flag or sticker, hang it from your radio antenna or apply it to your window. Remain in your car, where rescuers are most likely to find you.
- If you're stranded for an extended period of time, run your engine for about 10 minutes every hour to stay warm. Open a window slightly for ventilation while the car is running, to prevent any carbon monoxide buildup. Be sure to remove any snow that builds up on your car's exhaust pipe.
- If you have to spend the night in your car, turn on the interior overhead light so rescuers or work crews can see you.
Before hitting the road, be sure to read this helpful blog with 5 tips to prepare your vehicle for a road trip.
Want to be sure your car is tuned up and ready for the drive? Make an appointment now.
