Iowa winters are intense. With wind chills well below zero and snow coming during unexpected moments it can be difficult to be prepared for all problematic events. Here is a list of the seven best products to keep in your car to be more prepared for the unexpected.
- Ice scraper
Most Iowa cars contain this staple and for good reason. Snow and ice are major road hazards, especially when they are blocking the view of drivers. Having an ice scraper to be able to remove snow or ice from windows will help you be prepared for snow fall while your car is in the elements.
- Winter gear
With the temperatures reaching below freezing frequently throughout the winter, keeping some winter gear on hand for emergencies is a good idea. A hat, gloves, some hand warmers and even a pair of snow boots would be helpful for cold times. Winter gloves and snow boots are especially important as you may have to change a tire or dig yourself out in cold conditions. Maybe even keep a blanket for an emergency.
- Small shovel
Being in a situation where your car is stuck in snow is inconvenient, dangerous, expensive and frustrating. This can be avoided by keeping a small shovel in your car. Then when you find yourself stuck in the snow, it can be used to help you continue your travels. Being self-sufficient is always important, especially when in a remote location.
- Salt or snow melt of some sort
Similar to the reason for keeping a shovel, being stuck in the snow is a real problem, especially because there is little traction between your tires and the road. It is often too slick to escape. Sprinkling salt by your tires can help you get the traction you need to release your car and continue on the road. This can also be used in icy situations.
- Jumper cables
The cold weather often drains batteries unexpectedly. Keeping jumper cables means you will be able to restart your car’s battery with the help of someone else. These are helpful to keep in your car year round, but a dead battery is a more common problem in the winter.
- Flashlight
The last thing a person wants to happen in an emergency is for their phone to die; however, if an emergency or wreck lasts a long time, this can be a real problem. By keeping a flashlight on hand, phone batteries can be conserved and you can be prepared for being without a phone. It is hard to see in the middle of winter storms without a flashlight, and not to mention the short days with more time on the road in the dark. It is a good idea to keep light on hand.
- Snacks and water
Sometimes, the only option in a winter-related car accident is to wait for help. In this case, it is a good idea to keep food and water on hand. In bad weather, it can take a lot longer for help to arrive, and the incident is usually at unexpected times. Keeping basic supplies on hand can help keep you full and distracted during an emergency.
