With the latest lake effect snow storm outside of Buffalo, New York, on December 1st and 2nd of 2010, we figured it would be a good idea to write a blog about what items are essential to keep in your car. This snow storm had closed several miles of Interstate 90 with people on the highway for over 24 hours going nowhere.  But what are people to do if they get stuck and what types of items are good to have?

Prepare Your Car for the Snow

You never know what you can expect with snow and how deep it can get. If you know you’ll be traveling in snow, it is very important to consider the following tips:

• Have a full tank of gas in your car. This is your source for heat if you get stuck. Although it won’t last forever, it is best to keep your tanks full during the winter months.
• Make sure the tread on your tires is good to handle the snow.
• Be sure your car is in good working order. Check your wipers and be sure all the lights on your car are working. In near white out conditions, lights will be the first thing people see.

Items to Have In Your Car

Cleaning Snow Off A Car

If by any chance you become stuck in traffic and in the snow like some of the people did in Buffalo, New York, have these following items in your car:

• First Aid Kit. This should be in your car no matter what the situation.
• Blankets. We know it is cold if it is snowing. Blankets will help keep you and your passengers warm if you by chance you run out of gas or are stuck for some time. It is also a good idea to keep extra warm clothes in your car including gloves, scarves, hats, and boots.
• Food and water. We all need to eat and drink.
• Snow and Ice Removal Tools. These will help you remove any snow or ice buildup off your windows.
• Fully charged cell phone. Having your cell phone can keep you in contact with loved ones. If you have a cell phone charger for the car, make sure you have that too.
• Tow rope. If the thruway is gridlocked, then this won’t help. Once traffic starts moving and you realize you can’t go anywhere, a tow rope may help you out of the snow. If not, contact a local towing company.

Optional Items If You Know You May Encounter Snow

If you are planning a road trip and know you may encounter some snow, these will help you and your passengers pass the time if the driving is slow or stopped. This may include portable DVD players, a deck of cards, travel size board games, among other things. You can read our other blog about tips to entertain kids in a car for a road trip.

Snowy Travel By Car

It is important to remember that if you have a portable GPS unit, be sure you have it in your car. Tune your radio to a local station and if they report heavy snow in an area where you know you will be traveling, this will allow you time to find an alternate route to avoid the snow.

And remember, follow all driving regulations and laws and avoid all distractions. For example, never try changing your route on your GPS while driving. Pull over and change it or have a passenger change it for you. Find more information about global positioning systems.

It is always better to be safe than sorry. Stay tuned to local weather forecasts and news. It might just be better to stay at home rather than going out in the snow.