Winter Emergency Car Kit

The winter season in New York can be brutal at times, but when you’re prepared for the roads ahead with a winter emergency car kit, you can handle the challenges that might come along the way. Besides winterizing your car for upstate NY roads with a checkup at our service center before the cold hits, having a proper winter car safety kit is also a smart idea. See what you should include in it below!

Winter Car Safety Kit in Albany

The slick, icy roads and unpredictable weather are nothing new to Troy drivers, but if you have never had a winter car safety kit or even a general emergency tool kit for your car, then you should definitely consider putting one together. In the event that you get stranded or your car breaks down in the worst timing possible, a proper winter emergency car kit will come in handy. You should include the following items to make the best car emergency kit for the cold season:

• Battery cables, plus peace of mind from a battery test before winter
• Ice scraper
• Portable shovel
• Items to help when stranded: flashlight, warning signaling cones, backup batteries, safety vest, and roadside triangles
• Basic first-aid kit
• Cell phone charger
• Camera
• Flat tire kit (and know how to change a tire yourself)
• Common winter items: gloves, blanket, rain poncho, rags, boots, socks, a hat. Pack anything to keep you warm if you get stranded during a snowstorm.

Essential Items for Long Road Trips During the Cold

In addition to the best car emergency kit for the daily commutes in Albany, you should also have some items on hand if you plan on going on a long road trip this winter. Consider having the following in your car to be prepared for any emergencies:

• Tow strap: If your car gets stuck in a ditch and you need another vehicle to help pull you out, then you will need a tow strap. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual about the proper way of using this tool.
• Fire extinguisher: In the case of a small fire, a fire extinguisher can come in handy. Make sure the fire extinguisher you purchase is intended for automotive use.
• Long-lasting food and water: It’s always best to have some water and long-lasting food, especially on long trips. Granola, protein bars, and water can last in your vehicle for about six months before they need to be replaced, so they can stay in your winter emergency car kit for a while.

Driving an EV on a long winter trip? Plan extra stops, since cold weather affects EV battery range.

If you ever find yourself stranded after going off the road in inclement weather, remember to stay inside or as close to your car as possible if it’s safe to do so. Never leave your vehicle and go out on your own. Emergency responders will be able to locate your vehicle easily, but if you wander off on your own, it will be more difficult to locate you. Until help arrives, you’ll be prepared with the best car emergency kit.

Take on Winter With Ford of Latham!

If you have any questions about building your own kit for the winter near Schenectady, feel free to reach out to us. We want to help every local driver to stay out there on the Latham roads during the season! If you need your car to be inspected before winter arrives, schedule a service appointment with us today.