Winter driving emergencies can happen at any time.
Poor visibility due to wind and blowing snow, icy roads, extreme temperatures; there are many ways you can become stranded this winter.
So, you are stranded - now what?
Here are some tips:
- Use your cell phone to call for help. If cell service is poor, send a text message, and share your location. Minimize cell phone use expect for communication with your rescue party.
- Make your vehicle visible – turn on your hazard lights, and keep headlights on, if possible.
- Ensure your exhaust pipe is not blocked.
- Run your vehicle sparingly, about ten minutes each hour.
- Crack your window on the side away, from the wind for fresh air.
- Hunker down and make use of your vehicle emergency kit.
In advance of winter driving, remember to put together a vehicle emergency kit and keep it in your vehicle. See below for some ideas.
- Warm clothes for all passengers, as well as blankets
- Shovel
- Candle and matches
- Flashlight
- Snacks and water