Vehicle Safety: Are You Prepared??

Since summer is now in the rear view mirror, it’s time to start thinking (and preparing) for the harsher winter months. Besides making sure your home is well prepared, one of the  biggest concerns is having vehicle issues, or being stranded in your car during a big winter storm. With my husband being a trucker, we’ve experienced some pretty scary weather over the years, and we’ve came up with a list of things you need to do – or have – to make sure you are prepared for anything that might come your way.

Keep Up with Proper Car Maintenance. Keeping your vehicle in top notch shape is one of the most important factors in vehicle safety. Simple things like changing your oil and filter and topping off other fluids on a regular basis is very important when traveling especially in bad weather. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, you always have a full gas tank, and you have extra fluids in your car just in case of an emergency.

Update Your First Aid Kit. I have to admit sometimes I am guilty of this myself; my first aid kit may or may not have the original band-aids, and alcohol wipes that came with it when I bought it. Besides the already-made first aid kits, it’s always a good idea to add your own items as well. You can find a list of some great first aid items here and other emergency kit items here. Remember to update your kit and replenish at least once a month!

Know How to Avoid a Bad Situation. Staying off the road before they are cleared, avoiding back roads when possible, and learning how to control your vehicle under certain road conditions are key to keeping safe. If you’re not sure – don’t risk it. Listen to the news or radio to find out if your town is under a driving restriction.

Following these simple tricks will not only make you feel more confident as you are traveling in less than desirable conditions, but it will also have you prepared for almost any situation that you find yourself in!