Winter Emergency Kit
What should you carry in your car in-case you get stranded ?
It can pay to think like a Scout or Guide this Winter. Don’t be complacent but plan and Be Prepared for bad weather as it can strike at anytime, especially when we aren’t expecting it.
Follow our essential advice that could save a frustrating situation from becoming one that can cause you harm.
Back in 2010, thousands of motorists found themselves stuck in their cars for up to 15 hours as snow, ice and gridlocked roads & motorways and left them stranded, not just far from home but in 2013 too motorists on the A23 in Sussex were stranded for up to 12 hours. (See video below)
The Red Cross recommends that every car on the road should have a well-stocked emergency supply kit in winter in case this happens to you, Below is a list we have put together containing what we recommend you should have on your journey no matter how short a trip it may turn out to be a lot longer than you expected and being prepared is going to make the situation significantly less dangerous.
Always make sure you have as much fuel in your tank as you possibly can in bad weather especially if it has snowed.
Having just enough for your journey won’t help if you get stranded for several hours and need to keep the engine running occasionally to help keep warm.
Item Checklist:
- Sufficient fuel for the entire journey and any waiting
- Battery jump cables
- First aid kit
- Shovel
- Basic tool kit
- Tow rope
- Warning triangle
- Sleeping bags or a blanket
- Extra winter clothing (caps, socks, mittens,boots,coat)
- Some sealed snacks eg; biscuits & drink (2 litres water)
- Ice scraper & De-icer
- Torch
- High Visibility vest
- Mobile phone, charger, portable power pack if possible
- If your car uses a screw-in towing eye for recovery, know where it is !
- Flashing light (optional)