January is the coldest month. Cold weather vehicle safety is critical. Emergency supplies in your car are critical in case of an accident. Before traveling, check your vehicle. Make sure it’s safe to drive in cold weather. Stock emergency supplies in your car before leaving home.
Evaluating Your Car
Check the air pressure in your tires to make sure they are at a good PSI. The PSI, or pounds per square inch, varies per vehicle. A good PSI is between 32 and 35. Poor air pressure in your tires can put you at risk for accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2017 more than 700 people died on the road in tire-related crashes. Check the fuel level in your gas tank. A full tank is always best, especially when the temperatures drop below zero.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “Using four-wheel drive uses more fuel.” When roads are icy or covered in snow, it decreases your tires’ grip on the road which wastes energy.
Emergency Supplies for Your Car
Prepare your vehicle for severe winter weather. Supplies should include jumper cables, an ice scraper, snow brush, first aid kit, road flares, and extra winter clothing such as blankets, mittens and socks. Other supplies to consider are:
- A bag of sand or non-clumping cat litter to help with traction
- A snow shovel
- A tow strap
- Hand warmers
- Tire gauge
These supplies will be handy in an accident or if you need to pull over in extreme weather. Keep the supplies in your back seat, not your trunk. The trunk may be damaged in an accident, eliminating access to your supplies.
Being prepared for the freezing temperatures will help you stay warm and safe. Don’t let the negative temperatures put you in a negative mood, stay positive by staying warm!
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of Energy, The Old Farmer’s Almanac
Image Source: Lindow Insurance
