Stranded Car Precautions

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Winter Storms Car Preparedness

STRANDED CAR PRECAUTIONS

It’s that time of year again. Storms can happen and we all need to be prepared for issues. Winter storms can cause HAVOC for drivers and stranded cars.

Here are some must-haves to keep in your car if you get stranded on the side of the road.

SNOW REMOVAL TOOLS

When you get stuck on the side of the road you will want to try and get yourself out of the mess. Try to keep these tools in your car during the Winter months: 

• ICE SCRAPER / SNOW BRUSH
  • These tools are invaluable to remove ice, snow and debris in the winter weather off of your windshield and vehicle. 
• SHOVEL
  • With the use of this tool, you can clear the snow under and around the car to help get more traction for movement. We advise that you start by making a clear and direct path to get you back on the road. Take some time and clear off the car so it is apparent that you require assistance if you are “stuck in the snow.” Oftentimes, cars go unnoticed due to not being cleared off and others assuming no one is in the vehicle. You should also ensure that you have dug out the tailpipe to allow a path for the exhaust to escape.
• KITTY LITTER / SAND
  • It is recommended to throw down sand/kitty litter on the path you have cleared as well as under the tire to help the tires gain traction on the snow-covered ground. 

STRANDED in YOUR CAR TOOLS

If you cannot “free the car” you need to make the decision to stay in the car and wait for help. This is when you need to hunker down and wait for someone to help rescue you. You need to ensure that you can stay warm during what could be hours of waiting. 

• EXTRA SET OF CLOTHING
  • When you get stuck you have to conserve the gas to ensure that you can drive away once rescued. It will get cold in the car, so packing extra gloves, clothes, hats and blankets can help ensure you stay warm. 
• EMERGENCY FLARES
  • When stuck in the snow, you will be surprised at how fast your car can get completely covered. Suppose you notice a snow truck or any other form of an emergency vehicle. In that case, you will need to capture their attention as your location might be hard to see. An emergency flare will capture their attention, and you can be rescued faster. 
• JUMPER CABLES
  • If you have your car sitting on the side of the road while you have the engine running, it will cause your battery to die in most cases. Therefore, make sure you are keeping emergency jumper cables in your car that can help start your vehicle.
• FOOD / WATER
  • You don’t know how long you will be stranded and keeping food/water in the car will be vital for your survival. 

Make sure you COMMUNICATE with others about your leaving and arrival time IF you are driving somewhere when there is a projected winter storm. Therefore, they will know when to expect you and can contact the appropriate parties if you do not arrive on schedule. Also make sure you adjust your time to allow extra travel time when traveling through winter weather. *If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road, please call these emergency road services:

Emergency Police Number: Call 911

Missouri State Patrol: Call *55 or 800-525-5555