Winter is (almost) here! In the Midwest, we’re about to be dealing with some extreme wind chill advisories and a decent amount of snow on the roads. However, even if you aren’t shoveling out your car or dealing with below-zero temperatures just yet, now is a good time to review winter driving tips and perform maintenance on your car.
Safety and Loss Control Consultant, Ezra Schlecht, is here sharing his helpful tips on protecting your children, your families and yourself when traveling via car during the cold.
Winter Go-Bag
One important safety item I always keep in my vehicles is what I call my “winter go-bag” (pictured above). The go-bag is a preventative measure in case I were to get stuck and/or stranded. Contents are in three categories:
- Warmth
- Food
- Tools.
Warmth
Food
Tools
Crucial note when digging out: Starting your car with a blocked exhaust pipe can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, so always be aware of the area around it. If your car was parked outside during a snowstorm, you may have to spend some time clearing around the exhaust.
Final Thoughts
Being prepared with your own winter go-bag can help ensure a safer winter driving experience, even on icy roads. Stay safe out there, and if you have further questions, I’d be happy to chat as a safety professional.
Ezra Schlecht, CSHO, SSH, CRIS
Safety and Loss Control Consultant
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or insurance advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for guidance tailored to your specific situation.
