There is a lot of wintry precipitation in Portland, and it might continue throughout the weekend. Even while nobody wants to be stopped in their car in a snowbank or waiting for a tow truck while there is snow everywhere, it’s wise to be ready with at least a roadside emergency kit, if not snacks. In light of this, we have revised our list of essentials for a winter emergency pack that you should keep in your car.
What should you have in your car in case you get stuck in the snow?
A complete roadside emergency kit
This well regarded Everstart emergency kit, which costs less than $50, is packed with the necessities you’ll need on hand in case of emergencies. One straightforward package that includes jumper cables, a tire inflator, a first aid kit, a flashlight, knit gloves, a blanket, an emergency poncho, and an emergency triangle. A smart place to start your emergency supply and a reliable backup strategy for unexpected roadside situations.
First aid kit
Keeping a first aid kit on hand is a good idea. Stock it with materials that could be useful in an emergency, such as bandages, gauze, pain medicine, disinfectant, scissors, and other items.
Chains or snow socks for your tires
It’s time to remove your snow socks or old chains from storage and place them in your trunk. To determine what size traction device you need, find out the size of your car’s tires if you don’t already have any. Les Schwab, Amazon, and Walmart all sell chains and snow socks. It’s not too difficult to put them on. These chains are currently available on Amazon for less than $100 if you own a vehicle.
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Where can I find tire chains in Portland, or online
? Everything you need to know about where to get them and how to pick the right ones for your car.
Crampons or traction cleats
Walking in cold weather is made easier with traction cleats, sometimes known as crampons, which slide over your shoes and grip compacted snow and ice.They equally distribute traction, offer stability on slick roads, and even aid on rocky terrain. Traction cleats stretch to accommodate the majority of shoe styles and come in four sizes.For winter walks or unforeseen slippery conditions, have a pair in the car. The large size currently costs $23.18, according to Amazon.
Jumper cables
Cables for jumpers are essential. Store them in the trunk of your car. It’s likely that someone else in need will wish you had them, even if you don’t need them. Amazon now has this 20-foot jumper cable set with a tote case for $24.61 (15% discount). Do you need something a bit lighter? At Walmart, this 12-foot, 165-amp cable set costs less than $15.
Flashlight with fresh batteries
Store a functional flashlight and new batteries in your glove box, center console, or door compartment. Don’t hide anything in the trunk, where it can be hard to find.
Phone charger
Before you drive in hazardous conditions, make sure your phone is completely charged. In the event that your car loses power and you are unable to charge your phone, carry a fully charged portable phone charger. Currently on sale at Walmart for just $17.85 (normally $49.99), this solar-powered device has a lamp and compass built in. Do you require multiples? On Amazon, this two-pack of portable chargers costs $17.98.
Battery-powered radio
The best options for backup communication devices are hand-cranked or battery-powered radios in case your cell phone breaks down, the battery runs out, or there is no service.Batteries, solar energy, or a hand crank can all be used to charge this emergency radio. It only $39.99 (about $50.98) on Amazon right now and includes a flashlight, SOS alert, and battery bank.
Roadside flares
If your vehicle is on the side of the road at night, flares and a reflective triangle can assist tow truck drivers and emergency personnel notice it. There are reusable flares that run on batteries. If you choose this option, make sure you have extra batteries on hand.
Lighter(s) and fire starters
You might wish to keep a pack of waterproof Inflame fire starters on hand in case of a severe winter emergency if you need to build a little fire to stay warm. An all-in-one steel and flint fire starter set is another option. For about $10, you can always acquire a basic pack of reliable disposable lighters if you’re looking for a less expensive solution. Or, for less than $10 on Amazon, try one of these rechargeable, waterproof USB electric lighters.
Extra hat, mittens and warm clothes
A few more layers of clothing are probably necessary if you have to walk for assistance or are stranded in a cold car for an extended period of time. Each person in the car should have an extra cap, scarf, sweatshirt, gloves, winter boots, and socks. (You can put old favorites in the car with new clothes.)
Blankets or a sleeping bag
Although sleeping in a car during the cold is not advised, comfortable blankets or sleeping bags might help shorten the wait if you must wait for assistance.
Snacks
Store small, high-calorie, non-perishable snacks in the center console or glovebox, such as protein bars, cereal, nuts, dried fruit, or crackers.Keep a goodie or two in reserve for your future, possibly anxious self.
Water
Always carry fresh water, but avoid leaving bottles in the backseat or trunk since they may freeze solid. Make good use of your Stanley or Hydroflask!
Ice scraper
Every car should have a portable snow brush or ice scraper. Avoid leaving it in the garage and don’t be duped into believing that a credit card or your gloved hand will suffice.
Shovel
Shovels aren’t only for porch steps and driveways. In the event that you become caught in deep snow, a small, collapsible shovel can be useful.Right now, this one is only $23 at Walmart. accessible on Amazon as well.
Kitty litter or sand
It could mean the difference between contacting a tow truck and going on your trip if you have some road sand or a container of cat litter (make sure it’s non-clumping variety) in the trunk. To get the traction you need to get out of a jam, spread the sand or trash around the driven wheels.
What should you do when driving in the snow?
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Remember
the 3 P s :
Prepare
for the trip,
protect
yourself, and
prevent
crashes on the road.
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Make a checklist ahead of time:
Checklist to prepare your family for an emergency at home or in a public place
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Check the forecast:
Before hitting the road, make note of any hazardous conditions that may be in your path. It may be worth rethinking the trip. Check here forup-to-date weather in your area
.
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Phone a friend:
In bad weather, let others know with a text or call when you re leaving, where you re going and when you should arrive. Update them when you ve arrived.
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Fill the gas tank:
Bad weather frequently leads to slow-going traffic as drivers work to avoid going off the road and while vehicles are pulled from ditches. Keep the gas tank near full to avoid the need for roadside assistance due to an empty tank. Keeping it near full will also prevent ice from building up in the tank and fuel lines.
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Vehicle safety checklist:
Before setting out, especially before a longer trip, make sure allfluid levels
are full and ensure the lights, heater and
windshield wipers
are functioning properly.
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Take it slow
: If you need to drive in snow or hazardous conditions, go slow. Black ice can be difficult to see. If the temperature is near freezing, drive like you re on ice; you may be.
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Bring a friend:
Don t travel alone; you re always safer in numbers.
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