It doesn’t matter where you live. Weather happens and so do roadside emergencies. Value Penguin estimates that there are over 5 million vehicle accidents in the US each year, which does not include general breakdowns or issues caused by weather. So regardless of which latitude you call home, it’s best to be prepared for those unexpected bumps in the road, then to wish you had, but didn’t and break down somewhere at 2 AM in a snowstorm. With that said, there’s “snow” time like the present to prepare and organize your car for winter adventures that are sure to come your way.
Items to have in your vehicle
First Aid Kit – As the Boy Scouts say, “Be Prepared.”
Have a first aid kit in your vehicle that has a little bit of everything. Band-Aids, Gauze, Scissors, Emergency Blanket, CPR Mouth Guard, and so much more. Create one yourself or purchase one like this and you will be good to go.
Water – You can and you will get thirsty if your car breaks down. So, grab a gallon water jug and keep it in your car. However, if you live in an area like we do, where it drops below freezing every night during the winter, don’t leave this in your car, as it will freeze and therefore won’t do you any good, if you get thirsty. Grab it when you head out the door.
Snack Bars – Keep snacks in your car. Packages of peanuts. Kind Bars. Granola Bars. Protein Bars. Anything that won’t spoil or melt in your car, but that could tide you over, should you get hungry while waiting for the tow truck.
Fire Extinguisher – Imperative! If you don’t already have a fire extiguisher in your car, run! Don’t walk to your nearest store and purchase one. You never know when a car will catch fire (Trust me. I know this from experience, just ask my mom.) and it is better to be safe than sorry.
Additional Items to Organize your Car for Winter
Cellphone Charger – You’d hate for your phone to be at 0% when you need to call for help. Always keep a phone charger in your car.
Window Breaker/Seatbelt Cutter – Another “just in case” item you should not only keep in your car but keep accessible is a Window Breaker and Seatbelt Cutter. You never know when you will be in an accident, your door is jammed shut and the seat belt won’t release. This tool can make all the difference in you getting out. Keep it attached to your visor, for easy access.
Duct Tape – As the saying goes, “Duct Tape can fix anything.” Keep a roll in your car for an emergency repair.
Flashlight – Keep an extra flashlight in your car. Yes, we all have flashlights on our phone, but what happens if your phone dies? Better to have an extra flashlight, preferably a head lamp. You can change a tire in the dark without worrying about how you will hold the light. Don’t forget the extra batteries.
Roadside Emergency Kit – Whether you put a Roadside Emergency Kit together yourself, or purchase one, a roadside emergency kit that contains a reflective warning triangle, a high visibility vest and jumper cables can make all the difference when it comes to being stranded somewhere.
Don’t forget to pack…
Ice Scraper/Snow Brush – If you can’t see out your windshield, or rear windshield, others can’t see in. If you are stuck on the side of the road, be sure to keep both your front and rear windshield clear, to the best of your ability.
Hat/Waterproof Gloves – You may not need them, but you’ll be glad you have them.
Extra Jacket – Nothing worse than having a wet jacket, or worse yet, no jacket. Always keep one in the car.
Blankets – We keep a couple lighter weight fleece blankets in the car, just in case. Use it as a pillow or a blanket while you wait for help to arrive.
Wherever your journeys may take you, I hope they are safe and uneventful. However, just in case, organize your car for winter adventures and give yourself some peace of mind.
Here’s to fun and fabulous winter adventures and RESETTING your life!
Roberta
Organization isn’t about perfection; it’s about efficiency, reducing stress and clutter, saving time and money, and improving your overall quality of life.” – CHRISTINA SCALISE
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