Did You Know? Items to add to vehicle-emergency kit for winter driving

Winter offers more challenges for driving, especially when freezing precipitation hits the roadways. Very low temperatures can also affect a car battery’s performance, potentially leaving a motorist stranded without the ability to start his or her vehicle.

When traveling longer distances, cellphone service may be spotty in rural places. All these factors make now a good time to put together a safety emergency kit.

Here are some items recommended by www.ready.gov (an official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security) and the National Weather Service to put in a vehicle to be prepared for emergency situations:

• Jumper cables;
• First-aid kit;
• Flares or reflective triangle;
• Ice scraper, snow brush and small shovel;
• Cellphone charger;
• Blanket;
• Map;
• Cat litter or sand for better tire traction;
• Water and snacks;
• Flashlight;
• Boots, mittens and warm clothes.

The website also recommends checking or having a mechanic check the following:

• Antifreeze levels;
• Battery and ignition system;
• Brakes;
• Exhaust system;
• Fuel and air filters;
• Heater and defroster;
• Lights and flashing hazard lights;
• Oil;
• Thermostat;
• Windshield wiper equipment and washer fluid level.

Watch weather forecasts to prepare for oncoming extreme conditions. When such weather approaches, it’s a good idea to fill up the gas tank and make sure your phones and devices are fully charged.