6 Surprising Things Smart Drivers Keep in Their Car winter edition
Have you ever trembled at the thought of getting stranded in the middle of nowhere?
If so, you’re not alone. We call it “auto anxiety” because a lot of women share your fear.
There’s no way to guarantee you’ll never get stranded…
but you can take preventive measures to make that possibility seem less frightening!
Click ahead to discover six surprising things smart drivers keep in their car.
- Flashlight and extra batteries
Could you imagine getting stranded on a country road in pitch black darkness? That sounds like a scene straight out of a horror movie. Just thinking about makes me tremble! Trust me when I say you would be relieved to have a flashlight if you ever find yourself in such a situation. Keep some extra batteries in your glove box just to be safe.
- Shovel, gloves, and blanket
Winter weather calls for extra preparation. There’s nothing “fun” about wiping snow off your windshield with bare-hands. Gloves will protect you from frost-bite. If big storms are common in your town, a shovel can dig you out of trouble. A blanket will keep you warm if you ever find yourself shivering for hours while you wait on a tow truck.
- Flares
It’s stressful to pull over on the interstate. Some cars might go by so fast that your vehicle shakes when they pass. This is a nightmare when you have to change a tire. Depending on the situation, it might be best to just call a tow truck. If you want to change the tire yourself, keep some flares in your trunk. Cars will see that light, assume it’s a cop, and slow down.
- First aid kit
I hope you never experience a dangerous accident, but it’s best to be ready for the worst. If you or a passenger ever gets injured in a wreck, it is essential to slow the bleeding as quickly as possible. The faster a wound is bandaged, the less likely an injury will result in shock. Basic car repair also comes with the possibility of scrapes and bruises. Be prepared!
- Booster (jumper) cables
Have you ever found yourself stuck in a parking lot? If so, I bet it was due to a dead battery. It’s scary to turn your keys to hear a sputtering engine. Doesn’t it sound angry? I think so! Anyway, I recommend keeping a set of booster cables in your trunk. I bet you’ll need them someday. You’ll also get the opportunity to play hero for fellow motorists in need. It’s fun to save the day!
- Ice scraper and snow brush
We got a HUGE snow this morning. My car was completely buried! It would have been a hassle to clear all that snow with my hands. It’s not smart to remove snow with your windshield wipers, because the cold could cause them to snap off. Keep an ice scraper and snow brush handy. You might not use them very much, but they sure make a big difference when you do.
I’m curious. Are there any other items you keep in your trunk just in case you ever need them? Tell us in the comments. If you want to help your friends be more confident drivers, please share this post on Facebook and Twitter. Click here to join Women Auto Know (it only takes a second!).