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Emergency
supplies can save lives in winter
Motorists can prepare for safer winter travel by keeping
a simple emergency kit on hand, advises the Idaho Transportation Department.
Every driver should carry some essential items in the
car in case of an emergency:
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Flashlights with extra batteries
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Stocked first aid kit
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Pocket knife
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Blanket or sleeping bag
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Mittens, socks and a wool cap
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Waterproof covering like a tarp or a poncho
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Three-pound coffee can, which can be used to heat
water
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A small sack of sand or cat litter for generating
traction under stuck wheels; it also adds weight to your vehicle
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A small shovel
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Bottled water (but remember it will probably freeze
so allow expansion room in the container)
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Booster cables
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Energy bars or other high-energy food like raisins
or nuts
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Brightly-colored scarf to attract attention in case
of an emergency
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Waterproof matches or a cigarette lighter
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Candles (a blanket over your head, body heat and the
heat from a single candle can prevent freezing)
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Basic tool kit to include pliers, screwdrivers, adjustable
wrench, tape and wire
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Paper towels or toilet tissue, good for their designed
purpose as well as a fire starter
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Spare tire
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Rope and wire, tow chain or a strap
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Starter fluid, extra oil, gas line deicer and battery
booster cables
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Map of the area where you plan to travel
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Signaling devices such as emergency flares or a mirror
Having these items on hand can help ensure a driver's
safety, but vehicles also need attention at the start of the winter
season. The American Automobile Association (AAA) advises drivers to
prepare their vehicles for the winter season by having a mechanic check
the following items:
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Battery
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Antifreeze level
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Wipers and windshield washer fluid
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Ignition system
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Thermostat
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Headlights and hazard lights
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Exhaust system
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Defroster and heater
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Brakes
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Oil level (if necessary, replace existing oil with
a winter grade oil or the SAE 10w/30 variety)
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Winter tires
Basic automobile parts can help save a stranded motorist.
Put these automotive parts to good use:
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A hubcap or sun visor can be substituted for a shovel
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Seat covers can be used as a blanket
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Floor mats can be used to shut out the wind
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Engine oil burned in a hubcap creates a smoke signal
visible for miles.
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A car horn can be heard as far as a mile downwind.
Three long blasts, ten seconds apart, every 30 minutes, is a standard
distress signal.
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A rear-view mirror can be removed to serve as a signaling
device
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Burn a tire for a signal or for warmth. Release the
air pressure and use gasoline or oil for a means to ignite it.
Before beginning a trip or long drive, motorists can learn
about the current road conditions on the Internet or by telephone. For
statewide highway information 24 hours a day, call the Idaho Transportation
Department at 1-888-IDA-ROAD (432-7623). For access to online reports,
visit the transportation department's web site at itd.idaho.gov
and click on Traveler Services.
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