Winterize your vehicle
2/6/2019
If you slide off a small not well traveled road like we have in so much of Illinois, STAY WITH YOUR CAR. Then, know that it my be 12-24 hours before you are found. Some of the following items will help you survive.
For winter travel, update the emergency kits in your vehicles with:
- a shovel
- windshield scraper with a brush or/ small broom
- Flashlight with new batteries
- battery powered radio
- extra batteries (for flashlight and radio)
- Water - as much as you can. Frozen is ok, you can always set it on your dash to melt
- snack food (ie: nuts)
- matches
- extra hats, socks and mittens
- first aid kit with pocket knife
- necessary medications
- blanket(s)
- tow chain or rope
- road salt and sand (or non-scoopable cat litter)
- booster cables
- emergency flares
- fluorescent distress flag
Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car:
- Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing.
- Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean.
- Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels.
- Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.
- Fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
- Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.
- Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability.
- Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.
- Thermostat - ensure it works properly.
- Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level.
Install good winter tires - Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) ©2019
