Winter Auto Essentials

Keeping a roadside emergency kit of supplies in one’s car is both the smart and responsible thing to do for drivers. While carrying an emergency kit year round is sound advice, there are certain adjustments that should be made to make it winter worthy. Public Safety Canada, in cooperation with Transport Canada suggests the following to prepare an emergency kit for your car. Print or download the Emergency Car Kit list and remember to cross items off the list as you put them in your car. A basic car kit should contain the following:

• Food that won’t spoil, such as energy bars

• Water - plastic bottles that won't break if the water freezes (replace every six months)

• Blanket, extra clothing, gloves and shoes or boots

• First aid kit with seatbelt cutter

• Small shovel, scraper and snowbrush

• Candle in a deep can and matches as well as a wind up flashlight

• Whistle—in case you need to attract attention

• Roadmaps and a copy of your emergency plan

Items recommended to keep in your trunk include:

• Sand, salt or cat litter (non-clumping)

• Antifreeze and windshield washer fluid

• Tow rope

• Jumper cables

• Fire extinguisher

• Warning light or road flares

Car accidents and stranded or stalled vehicles are all unfortunate but common occurrences during the winter months. Hazardous issues on the road may be caused by the weather, car maintenance issues, and other drivers on the road or a combination of factors. While there’s no certain way to avoid winter car problems or incidents, there are steps that drivers can take to reduce the risk. The best way to prevent a winter automotive emergency is to have the right seasonal maintenance performed including:

• Top up antifreeze or coolant level and windshield wiper fluid

• Switch to a winter weight oil for the season

• Have your battery load tested and remove any corrosion from the battery using a baking soda and water mixture

• Windshield wiper blades should be replaced every six months, switch to winter blades

• Snow tires with enough tread and that are properly inflated

• Keep the gas tank as full as possible to prevent moisture build up which can freeze and turn into ice

• Check brakes and exterior lights to ensure that they are working properly

At Eisenhauer Insurance, we pride ourselves on meeting our customers’ car insurance needs. Nova Scotia residents expect affordable, high-quality car insurance that takes care of them after an accident. Contact the experts at Eisenhauer Insurance today for a free quote and more information about coverage options. Call us today at 902-454-5888. Return to main blog page