Car Winter Essentials

With winter coming in hot and snow storms striking the midwest, it is very important to consider how to be safe when driving in these conditions. According to an estimate by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, more than 18,600 car wrecks happen during the winter season. 

“I was driving with my friend to school one morning in her car that was 2-wheel drive, and I remember it was super icy and snowy out. When we were trying to stop at a stop sign, her car would not stop, and we slid through,” Elena Juarez, senior, said.” It was terrifying, but I am thankful the cars around us were paying attention”.

This is a recurring situation experienced every winter for most drivers, whether their crash or potential crash happened because of slippery roads, black ice, high snow, or lack of visibility. In order to make sure you are prepared for every situation on the roads this winter, it is important to make sure you have these things in your possession: an ice scraper and snow brush, a small snow shovel, and jumper cables.

Icescraper and Snow Brush

Icescrapers and snow brushes are one of the most important winter essentials for protection from the typical snow and ice of winter. They are small and easy to store in the back of your car to grab to clear your windshields, windows or mirrors. The brush helps you clear the snow, while the scraper specifically helps with ice. Without being able to see clearly, it is impossible to keep yourself safe on the roads. 

Small Snow Shovel

In case your car gets stuck in the snow, a small shovel is necessary to be able to dig snow out from under your tires so that you can move. Although it is not an everyday item, it is needed in case of an emergency. 

Jumper Cables 

Although jumper cables are recommended to be kept in your car all year round, winter is especially a good time to have jumper cables at easy access. In cold temperatures, the car battery produces less power, meaning your car may fail to start.

These are just a few of the many tools that are considered a must have in a winter car kit by many winter driving guides, such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For more information, check out all of the tools they recommend in their guide to make sure you put yourself in the safest position possible.