Brace Yourself. Winter is coming. (Emergency Kit Ideas)

[Howie]

With winter around the corner and some of us already dancing in it, we should all have a small "kit" for dealing with roadside emergencies, landing in the ditch, white out, etc.

Having been a professional driver, driver instructor/examiner for over 15 years in Canada and overseas I have seen my fair share of unexpected. Allthough this list is not definitive it is a good starting point for some on equipment you should carry in your trunk to deal with winter wipeouts and what I carry each year with me.

First Aid Kit
Sleeping bag, or similar blankets
Potable water (it will thaw)
Ration pack or similar non perishable, easy open food, enough for 48h.
High visability vest (cheap and can be used to flag down help)
Colapsable shovel for clearing out exhaust, building snow wall etc...
Folding triangle road flares (not the flamable types)
Crossword puzzle book
5m String
Reflective blanket x 4 (Makes good curtains too and super tiny)
Notepad and pencil
All tire change equipment
Hatchet
Swiss army knife (even a wee little one will do..)
Firestarters (Bic lighter, scrap paper, etc)

In any event, the biggest thing I can say is DONT LEAVE THE CAR. Many people will tend to wander, usually due to not having any food or water with them, or not enough. Rescuers will almost always start from the car in a search. Even if your car does not run you can make a good shelter out of the car itself.

As well when your in the ditch, clear the snow off your vehicle from time to time and ensure that your exhaust is not blocked up with snow. Never let the tank fall below 1/2, at idle, your car can last for a day or two if you pulse the heat, and use of the arctic candles and reflective blankets covering the windows can help.

Signalling for help can be done if you are uninjured. Mark the side your car is on using the safety triangles on the side of the road you have gone off. Ensure they are also free of snow every few hours. While your engine is running, usin gthe 4 way flashers can help attract attention. If you are outside of the vehicle, don your safety vest. building a small fire and drying out wood beside it is prefferable.

What else can we think of? Lets get some more discussions out there.